Kesar Badam Phirni | Rice Dessert
Kesar Badam Phirni is a rich, creamy, and aromatic rice pudding from Indian and Mughlai cuisine, made with ground rice, milk, saffron (kesar), and almonds (Badam). Slow cooked to a thick, velvety texture, this dessert is infused with cardamom and saffron, giving it a royal flavor and golden hue.Traditionally served chilled in earthen bowls (kulhads), Phirni is a popular sweet dish for festivals, weddings, and special occasions like Diwali and Eid. The nutty richness of almonds and the delicate fragrance of saffron make it a decadent and refreshing dessert, perfect for warm or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- Milk, full fat (दूध) – 1 lt
- Almonds (बादाम) – 25 nos
- Cardamom (इलाइची) – 5 nos
- Rice (चावल) – 4 tbsp
- Milk, full fat (दूध) – a dash
- Saffron (केसर) – a pinch
- Sugar (चीनी) – ½ cup + 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Begin by soaking 25 almonds in water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours to soften them. Also, soak 4 tablespoons of rice in water for about 30 minutes before cooking. In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour 1 liter of full-fat milk and bring it to a boil over medium heat.While the milk is heating, peel the soaked almonds and cardamom and grind them into a smooth paste using ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon of milk. Add the prepared almond paste to the pan and mix well. Allow the mixture to cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Drain the soaked rice and grind it into a coarse paste using a little water. Gradually add the ground rice paste to the simmering milk while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming.Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This process may take around 20-25 minutes. Drop in a few strands of Saffron.
- Add 8 tablespoons of sugar to the mixture or adjust according to your taste preferences. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Turn off the heat and let the phirni cool down for a few minutes. Transfer the prepared Kesar Badam Phirni to serving bowls or earthenware pots for an authentic touch. Allow the phirni to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 2-3 hours to set.
- Garnish the chilled phirni with chopped almonds and saffron strands before serving.Enjoy the rich, creamy, and flavorful Kesar Badam Phirni as a delightful dessert after meals or during festive occasions!
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