Shrikhand is a sumptuous Indian dessert made from strained yogurt, sweetened with sugar, and infused with aromatic flavors like saffron and cardamom. This creamy delicacy boasts a luxurious texture and a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, often garnished with nuts for added richness. Served chilled, it’s a beloved treat on its own or paired with traditional Indian breads like puri, offering a harmonious blend of taste and texture in every spoonful.
Here’s a detailed recipe for making shrikhand:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups plain yogurt (full-fat works best)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of slivered almonds, pistachios, or other nuts (optional)
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon warm milk (if using saffron)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Hung Curd:
- Take the plain yogurt in a muslin cloth or a fine mesh strainer.
- Tie the cloth and hang it over a bowl. Let it drain for 4-6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This process will remove excess whey and make the yogurt thicker.
2. Infuse Saffron (optional):
- If using saffron, crush the saffron strands and soak them in a tablespoon of warm milk. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to infuse the milk with saffron’s flavor and color.
3. Prepare Shrikhand:
- Once the yogurt has drained and become thicker, transfer it to a mixing bowl.
- Add powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk (if using). Mix well until everything is combined thoroughly.
- If desired, add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Optional Additions:
- You can mix in slivered almonds, pistachios, or other nuts of your choice to add texture and flavor.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the shrikhand for at least 1-2 hours before serving. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.
- Garnish with more nuts or a sprinkle of saffron strands before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Shrikhand can be served on its own as a dessert or with puri (deep-fried Indian bread) as a part of a traditional Indian meal.
Tips:
- Ensure the yogurt is not sour as it will affect the taste of the shrikhand.
- Adjust the sugar quantity according to your preference for sweetness.
- You can experiment with various toppings like fruit slices (such as mango or strawberry) to add a fruity twist to your shrikhand.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and creamy dessert!
