Zafrani Firni is a traditional Indian dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and saffron (zafran), giving it a rich and aromatic flavor. Here’s a detailed recipe to make Zafrani Firni:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup basmati rice, washed and soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 1 liter (4 cups) full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
- A generous pinch of saffron strands (about 1/2 teaspoon), soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
- 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- Edible silver leaf (optional, for garnish)
- Rose petals (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Drain the soaked rice and grind it into a coarse paste using a blender or food processor. You can add a little milk if needed to facilitate blending.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the ground rice paste to the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring frequently, until the rice is completely cooked and the mixture thickens. This may take around 20-25 minutes.
- Add sugar to the mixture and continue to cook, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves completely and the firni thickens further.
- While the firni is cooking, soak the saffron strands in warm milk and let it infuse for a few minutes.
- Once the firni reaches a desired consistency (it should be thick but pourable), add the saffron-infused milk to the mixture along with chopped mixed nuts and ground cardamom (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Cook the firni for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the saffron to impart its color and aroma.
- Once done, remove the firni from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the firni to individual serving bowls or a large serving dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Garnish the firni with edible silver leaf (if using) and rose petals for a decorative touch.
- Chill the firni in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or until completely chilled and set.
- Serve the Zafrani Firni cold as a delightful dessert, garnished with additional chopped nuts and saffron strands if desired.
Enjoy the creamy and aromatic flavors of this classic Indian dessert!
