How to Make Kesar Phirni: A Royal Saffron Delight

Kesar Phirni is a delectable, rich, and aromatic Indian dessert that’s sure to impress your taste buds. Originating from the Mughal kitchens, Phirni is a creamy rice pudding that has been a staple at celebrations and feasts. When you add the essence of saffron (Kesar) to it, it transforms into a luxurious dessert that is both fragrant and indulgent.

If you’ve been looking to try this dessert at home, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the recipe for making Kesar Phirni, a royal treat that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to make your meal extra special.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

• Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, drain the rice and lightly crush it using your fingers or a pestle. This helps the rice break down slightly and gives a creamy texture to the dessert.

Step 2: Prepare the Saffron

• Soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm water or milk for about 10-15 minutes to allow the color and flavor to infuse.

Step 3: Cook the Rice in Water and Milk

• In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the water to a gentle boil. Add the soaked rice to the boiling water and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, until it softens but still retains a slight bite.
• Add the full-fat milk to the pan and stir gently. Bring it back to a simmer and let the rice cook in the milk, stirring frequently. The milk will gradually reduce and thicken.

Step 4: Flavor the Phirni

• Once the rice has softened and the milk has thickened to a creamy consistency, add the soaked saffron along with the milk or water it was soaking in.
• Add the cardamom powder for an aromatic kick and stir the mixture well.

Step 5: Add Sweetener and Condensed Milk

• Now, add Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener to your taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as you like, since Monkfruit Sweetener is sweeter than sugar.
• Pour in the condensed milk for a rich, creamy texture and extra sweetness. Stir to combine thoroughly. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk if you like a thinner phirni.

Step 6: Thicken the Mixture (Optional)

• If you’d like your phirni to be thicker, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of rice mix (rice flour or a smooth rice slurry) into a little water and add it to the pan. Stir it in and cook for another 5 minutes until the phirni reaches a pudding-like consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Once the phirni has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat.
• Pour the phirni into small serving bowls or traditional earthen pots. Let it cool down a bit before serving. You can also refrigerate it for a few hours if you prefer it chilled.
• Garnish with a few strands of saffron, chopped pistachios, and if you’re feeling indulgent, a little silver work (edible silver foil) to add a touch of elegance.

Tips for the Perfect Kesar Phirni:

• Saffron: For maximum flavor, let the saffron strands soak for at least 15 minutes in warm milk or water before adding them to the phirni.
• Sweetness: The use of Monkfruit Sweetener makes this phirni a great option for those on low-carb or sugar-free diets, but feel free to adjust the amount according to your sweetness preference.
• Consistency: If you prefer a more custard-like texture, let the phirni cool down completely. It will thicken as it sets.

This Kesar Phirni with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener is a modern twist on a classic dessert. It brings together the richness of saffron, the creamy texture of rice and milk, and the health-conscious sweetness of Monkfruit, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it at a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress.

Also Read | How to Make Delicious Tutti Frutti Biscuits: A Sweet & Nutty Treat

Enjoy your royal, saffron-infused treat with a sprinkle of pistachios and a hint of silver work for that extra bit of flair!