Kesar Badaam Phirni – Indian Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Take 1/4 cup of basmati rice in a bowl. Wash it 3 to 4 times with water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in fresh water for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Almond Paste

After 30 minutes, discard the water from the soaked rice. Take 20 peeled and soaked almonds and add them to a blender jar. Add a little milk (approximately 1/4 cup) and grind into a smooth paste. Transfer the almond paste to a separate bowl.

Step 3: Prepare Coarse Rice Paste

In the same blender jar, add the soaked rice. Add a little milk (approximately 1/4 cup) and blend it 4 to 5 times in pulse mode to create a coarse paste. Transfer the coarse rice paste to a separate bowl.

Step 4: Cook the Milk

In a pan, add 1 liter of full-fat milk. Stir continuously and cook for 10 minutes until the milk slightly reduces and thickens.

Step 5: Add Almond Paste and Rice Paste

Add the prepared almond paste to the reduced milk and cook for 5 minutes, stirring continuously. Then, add the coarse rice paste and continue to stir and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens.

Step 6: Add Saffron and Sugar

Add a few saffron strings (kesar) to the phirni for color and flavor. Stir well. Then, add 1/2 cup and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves.

Step 7: Thicken the Phirni

Continue to mix and cook the phirni for another 5 to 10 minutes until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. Add 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom (elaichi) powder and mix well.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Once the phirni is ready and has a thick consistency, pour it into individual serving cups. Let it cool down to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours until thoroughly chilled and set. Garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios before serving.

• Ensure continuous stirring while cooking the milk to prevent scorching and sticking to the bottom of the pan.

• Adjust sugar quantity according to your preference for sweetness.

• For best results, chill the phirni for at least 2-3 hours before serving to allow it to set and flavors to meld.

• Add a few drops of rose water or kewra essence for an enhanced floral aroma.

• Substitute basmati rice with broken rice for a different texture.

• Garnish with silver leaf (chandi vark) for a more festive presentation.