Phirni

Phirni is a North Indian dessert, delicately flavored with cardamom and saffron. Fruit pulp can be added to this basic recipe. 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup long grained rice (like Basmati)
• 1 litre/ 4 cups of whole/ full cream milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• 1 pinch of saffron
• 1/2 cup mix of unsalted almonds and pistachios chopped coarsely

 

Method of Preparation:

• Thoroughly wash and drain the rice. Put it into a bowl and cover with water. Soak for 2 hours.
• Drain all the water away and grind the rice to a very coarse paste (pieces should be visible).
• Put the rice paste, milk, sugar, cardamom and saffron into a deep, heavy bottomed pan and cook on medium heat till the rice is completely done (it will get soft). Stir often to prevent the milk from scorching or burning.
• Reserve some for garnishing and add the remaining mixed nuts to the Phirni and stir well. Turn off the heat.
• Allow the Phirni to cool, then chill in the refrigerator. Spoon chilled Phirni into bowls, garnish with the remaining chopped nuts and serve.