Authentic Indian Shrikhand Recipe: A Creamy and Delicious Dessert

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of Plain Yogurt (full fat)
  • 1/2 cup of Powdered Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Cardamom Powder
  • A pinch of Nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons of Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Cashews, Pistachios)
  • 1 tablespoon of Saffron Strands
  • 2 tablespoons of Milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Rose Water

Steps and instructions

  1. Place a cheesecloth over a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the cheesecloth. Gather the ends and tie them together. Hang this setup in a cool place for about 6-7 hours to drain the whey from the yogurt.
  2. After the whey is drained, what's left in the cloth is called "chakka". Transfer the chakka to another bowl.
  3. Add powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and a pinch of nutmeg to the chakka. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  4. Soak the saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for a few minutes, then add this to the yogurt mixture. Mix well.
  5. Add the rose water and mix again.
  6. Garnish with chopped nuts.
  7. Refrigerate the shrikhand for a few hours before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add a teaspoon of ground cardamom seeds for a stronger cardamom flavor.
  • Replace the powdered sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
  • Mix in some crushed saffron strands directly into the shrikhand for a more vibrant color.
  • Add a tablespoon of finely grated fresh coconut for a hint of tropical flavor.
  • Include a tablespoon of rose petal jam (gulkand) for a unique twist.
  • Top the shrikhand with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a decadent touch.
  • Sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top for an additional aromatic element.
  • Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, or strawberries for a fruity variation.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the chopped nuts or replace them with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Recipe overview

Shrikhand is a classic Indian dessert that's enjoyed all over the country, particularly in the west. It's a rich and creamy dish made with hung curd, sugar, saffron, and a blend of aromatic spices. The best part about Shrikhand is that it's incredibly easy to make at home with a few basic ingredients and a bit of time. Our recipe will guide you through the process of making this delightful dessert, from preparing the hung curd to adding the final garnish of chopped nuts. Expect a luscious dish with a cool, creamy texture and a sweet, tangy flavor enhanced by the warmth of spices. It's a treat for the senses, and perfect for special meals or festive occasions.

Common questions

  1. Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of full-fat yogurt? No, it is recommended to use full-fat yogurt for the best texture and flavor of the shrikhand.
  2. How long should I hang the yogurt to drain the whey? Hang the yogurt for about 6-7 hours to ensure most of the whey is drained.
  3. Can I use a regular strainer instead of a cheesecloth? No, using a cheesecloth is important to properly drain the whey and achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of powdered sugar? While powdered sugar is traditionally used, you can experiment with other sweeteners such as jaggery powder or honey if you prefer.
  5. Do I need to roast the nuts before adding them? You can use roasted nuts for added flavor, but it is not necessary. If using raw nuts, make sure to chop them finely.
  6. How long should I refrigerate the shrikhand before serving? Refrigerate the shrikhand for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to blend and for it to chill properly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients for the shrikhand.
  • Cheesecloth - Used to strain the whey from the yogurt and collect the chakka.
  • Kitchen String - To tie the ends of the cheesecloth together and hang it for draining.
  • Spatula - A utensil for mixing and scraping the shrikhand mixture.
  • Grater - To grate the nutmeg for adding a pinch to the shrikhand.
  • Small Bowl - To soak the saffron strands in warm milk before adding to the shrikhand.
  • Refrigerator - To chill and set the shrikhand before serving.

Origin stories

Shrikhand, a royal dessert of Western Indian cuisine, finds its roots in the ancient times of Maharashtra and Gujarat. The name Shrikhand is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Shikharini', which is described as a curd dish in ancient texts. Legend has it that the dish was a popular delicacy among the Peshwas, who were great patrons of arts and cuisine. They would often serve this sweetened yogurt dish, adorned with saffron and nuts, to honor their guests. The enchanting aroma and the delicate taste of Shrikhand have since then made it an irresistible dessert, savored during festive occasions and in everyday life. The creamy and luscious texture of Shrikhand, accentuated with the subtle flavors of saffron, cardamom, and nuts, truly makes it a dessert fit for the Gods.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.