Gulab Phirni Recipe: A Delightful Rose-Flavored Indian Dessert
Indulge in the creamy and aromatic flavors of Gulab Phirni, a traditional Indian dessert infused with rose and saffron. This dish is perfect for festive occasions and special gatherings, offering a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage in each spoonful. The addition of rose petals brings a unique floral essence, while pistachios and almonds provide a delightful crunch. Serve it chilled for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1/4 cup |
| Full-fat Milk | 1 liter |
| Saffron strands | Few |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Dried rose petals | 2 tablespoons |
| Mixed nuts (pistachio and almonds) | For garnishing |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice
Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes to soften it. After soaking, drain the water and transfer the rice to a grinder. Pulse the rice until it reaches a gritty texture, slightly coarser than semolina. This texture will add body to the Phirni without turning it into a paste. -
-
Boil the Milk and Add Ingredients
Pour the milk into a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add the ground rice and a few strands of saffron for color and aroma, whisking continuously to prevent any clumps from forming. -
Simmer the Mixture
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring it every couple of minutes to avoid sticking. After about 20 minutes, you’ll notice the Phirni mixture starting to thicken as the rice absorbs the milk. Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and the rice is fully cooked. -
Sweeten the Phirni
Once the mixture reaches a creamy consistency, add the sugar and stir well until it completely dissolves. Turn off the heat and let the Phirni mixture cool to room temperature. -
Blend for a Smooth Texture
Once the Phirni has cooled, transfer it to a mixer-grinder or use a hand blender to pulse for about 5 seconds. This step smoothens the mixture, enhancing its creaminess without making it too smooth or removing the signature texture. -
Add Rose Flavor and Chill
Stir in the dried rose petals, giving the Phirni its signature floral taste. Pour the prepared Phirni into serving bowls, cover, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally, overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set. -
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish each bowl of chilled Gulab Phirni with chopped pistachios, almonds, and a sprinkle of dried rose petals for an elegant presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Gulab Phirni alongside classic Indian treats like samosas or Mawa Gujiya to create a festive spread that celebrates the flavors of Indian cuisine. Enjoy this delicacy on special occasions, or share it as a thoughtful, homemade dessert with loved ones.
This Gulab Phirni Recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The floral hint of rose, combined with the rich creaminess of the rice and milk, makes this dessert a memorable treat.
