### Kesar Pista Kulfi Recipe: A Chilled Indian Treat to Escape the Heat
Kesar pista kulfi is a scrumptious frozen delicacy that beautifully embodies the spirit of summer in India. This rich, creamy dessert is a type of traditional Indian ice cream, called kulfi, and is particularly favored during the sweltering months. Crafted with full-fat milk, malai (fresh cream), saffron (kesar), cardamom, and crushed pistachios, this treat is both luxurious and invigorating.
#### Ingredients
– 1 liter full-fat milk
– 1/2 cup malai (fresh cream)
– 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons cornflour
– 1/4 cup water (for cornflour slurry)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Milk**: In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring the full-fat milk to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring now and then to stop it from sticking. Cook until the milk is reduced to about half its original volume.
2. **Add Saffron and Sugar**: When the milk has thickened, incorporate the saffron strands and sugar. Stir thoroughly until the sugar completely dissolves. The saffron will give a lovely golden color and a rich taste to the kulfi.
3. **Thicken the Mixture**: In a small bowl, combine the cornflour with water to make a slurry. Slowly add this slurry to the simmering milk, stirring constantly. This will further thicken the milk and ensure a smooth texture.
4. **Incorporate Cream and Flavorings**: Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the malai, cardamom powder, and chopped pistachios. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
5. **Cool the Mixture**: Let the mixture cool down to room temperature. When cooled, pour it into kulfi molds or any appropriate container for freezing.
6. **Freeze**: Cover the molds with a lid or cling film and place them in the freezer. Freeze for a minimum of 6-8 hours, or until the kulfi has fully set.
7. **Serve**: To unmold the kulfi, dip the molds in warm water for a few seconds. Gently pull out the kulfi and serve right away, optionally drizzled with rose syrup and a dash of extra pistachios for flair.
#### Tips for Perfect Kulfi
– **Quality Ingredients**: Utilize high-quality saffron and fresh unsalted pistachios for the finest flavor.
– **Avoid Shortcuts**: While it might be tempting to use milk powder or condensed milk for a quicker process, slow-cooking full-fat milk provides a richer taste and consistency.
– **Low-Fat Option**: For a lighter alternative, swap full-fat milk with skimmed milk while still using cornflour for thickness.
Kesar pista kulfi is not merely a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey that evokes memories of savoring this treat in the vibrant streets of India. Whether you’re aiming to cool off on a scorching day or simply indulge in something sweet, this kulfi is bound to satisfy your cravings. Relish making this exquisite dessert at home and share it with family and friends!