# Kesar Pista Kulfi Recipe: A Chilled Indian Delight to Combat the Heat
As temperatures soar and humidity levels climb, there’s nothing better than a delightful dessert to refresh you. Introducing **Kesar Pista Kulfi**, a classic Indian frozen delicacy that is luscious, decadent, and full of taste. This wonderful treat, crafted from full-fat milk, saffron (kesar), and pistachios, is an ideal way to indulge during the sweltering summer days.
## What is Kesar Pista Kulfi?
Kesar Pista Kulfi is a type of the traditional Indian dessert known as kulfi. Unlike conventional ice cream, kulfi boasts a thicker and creamier consistency, attributed to the slow cooking of the milk. The infusion of saffron not only elevates the taste but also imparts a stunning golden color to the kulfi. Chopped pistachios add a pleasurable crunch, ensuring that every mouthful is a divine experience.
### A Culinary Memory
For many, kulfi represents more than just a dessert; it evokes cherished memories. The author recalls enjoying kesar pista kulfi from a street vendor in the Charminar area of Hyderabad during Ramadan. The recollection of kulfi drizzled with rose syrup and adorned with pistachios highlights the treat’s cultural importance.
## Ingredients
To prepare Kesar Pista Kulfi, you will require the following ingredients:
– **Full-fat milk**: 1 liter
– **Saffron strands**: 1-2 pinches
– **Cardamom powder**: 1 teaspoon
– **Chopped unsalted pistachios**: ¼ cup
– **Cornflour**: 2 tablespoons
– **Sugar**: ¾ cup (adjust according to taste)
– **Fresh cream (malai)**: ½ cup (optional, for added creaminess)
## Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Milk
1. **Boil the Milk**: In a heavy-based saucepan, bring the full-fat milk to a boil.
2. **Reduce the Milk**: Lower the flame and allow the milk to simmer. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Cook until the milk reduces to about half its original volume, which can take 30-40 minutes.
3. **Add Saffron**: Once thickened, incorporate the saffron strands, cardamom powder, and sugar. Stir thoroughly to blend.
### Step 2: Thicken the Mixture
1. **Prepare Cornflour Slurry**: In a small bowl, combine the cornflour with a few tablespoons of water to form a smooth slurry.
2. **Incorporate the Slurry**: Gradually add the cornflour slurry to the thickened milk while stirring continuously. This will help attain a creamy consistency and prevent ice crystals from forming.
3. **Add Pistachios**: Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and fresh cream (if using) into the mixture. Mix well.
### Step 3: Set the Kulfi
1. **Mould the Kulfi**: Pour the mixture into kulfi molds, stainless steel katori, or terracotta pots.
2. **Freeze**: Seal the molds with a lid or plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Let them freeze for at least 6-8 hours, or until fully set.
### Step 4: Serve
1. **Unmould the Kulfi**: To serve, dip the molds in warm water for a few moments to loosen the kulfi. Carefully pull them out.
2. **Garnish**: Drizzle with rose syrup and sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top for an enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
## Tips for the Perfect Kulfi
– **Quality Ingredients**: Opt for high-quality saffron and fresh, unsalted pistachios for the best taste.
– **Avoid Shortcuts**: Although it may be tempting to use milk powder or condensed milk, the authentic flavor of kulfi is derived from slowly cooked full-fat milk.
– **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to explore other flavors such as mango, rose, or cardamom to create your own unique variations of kulfi.
## Conclusion
Kesar Pista Kulfi transcends being just a dessert; it embodies a celebration of flavors and cherished memories. This rich, nutty indulgence is ideal for cooling off in the hot summer months and is