Authentic Nepali Sikarni Recipe: A Creamy Yogurt Dessert Delight

Ingredients

500 grams of Greek Yogurt
200 grams of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
1 tablespoon of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
100 grams of chopped dried fruits (raisins, dates, figs)
1 tablespoon of saffron strands
2 tablespoons of warm milk

Steps and instructions

Start by soaking the saffron strands in the warm milk. Set it aside to let the color and flavor infuse into the milk.
Take the Greek Yogurt in a large bowl. Ensure that the yogurt is thick and has less water content. If not, strain the yogurt for a few hours till the water drains out.
Add the powdered sugar to the Greek Yogurt and mix well. Ensure there are no lumps and the sugar is well incorporated into the yogurt.
Now, add the cardamom powder to the yogurt and mix well.
Next, add the soaked saffron strands along with the milk to the yogurt. Mix well to give a nice yellow color to the yogurt.
Now, add the chopped nuts and dried fruits to the yogurt and mix well.
Refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours before serving.
Finally, serve the Sikarni chilled, garnished with some more chopped nuts and dried fruits.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
Whisk - To mix the yogurt, sugar, and other ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring Spoons - To measure the cardamom powder, saffron strands, and milk accurately.
Chopping Board - To chop the nuts and dried fruits.
Knife - To chop the nuts and dried fruits.
Refrigerator - To chill the Sikarni before serving.

Recipe variations

Use honey instead of powdered sugar for a natural sweetener.
Experiment with different flavors such as rose water or vanilla extract.
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and aromatic twist.
Try using different types of nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts.
Incorporate fresh fruits like diced mangoes or strawberries for added freshness and flavor.
For a vegan option, substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut milk yogurt or almond milk yogurt.
Add a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Top with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Sprinkle some crushed digestive biscuits or graham cracker crumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
For a spiced version, add a pinch of ground ginger or clove powder.

Recipe overview

Sikarni is a traditional Nepalese dessert that is not only delicious but also easy to make. It's a refreshing and healthy sweet treat made from Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, cardamom, and a medley of dried fruits and nuts. To enhance its flavor and give it a beautiful color, saffron soaked in warm milk is also added. The Sikarni is then chilled to perfection before being served. This recipe, with its blend of rich flavors and textures, offers a delightful end to any meal. Get ready to immerse yourself in the exquisite taste of this Nepalese delicacy.

Common questions

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? No, Greek yogurt is preferred for this recipe as it has a thicker consistency and less water content, which is important for the texture of Sikarni.
What can I substitute for powdered sugar? You can substitute powdered sugar with regular granulated sugar. However, make sure to powder the granulated sugar in a blender or food processor before adding it to the yogurt.
Can I skip adding saffron? Yes, you can skip adding saffron if you don't have it. However, saffron adds a unique flavor and beautiful color to the Sikarni.
Can I use any variety of nuts and dried fruits? Yes, you can use any variety of nuts and dried fruits of your choice. Feel free to experiment and use your favorite combination.
Do I need to refrigerate Sikarni before serving? Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the Sikarni for at least two hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to chill properly.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the Greek Yogurt, sugar, and other ingredients.
Whisk - To thoroughly mix the ingredients and ensure a smooth consistency.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands.
Chopping Board - To chop the nuts and dried fruits.
Knife - To chop the nuts and dried fruits into small pieces.
Refrigerator - To chill the Sikarni before serving.
Serving Bowls - To serve the chilled Sikarni.
Garnishing Spoon - To garnish the Sikarni with additional chopped nuts and dried fruits.

Origin stories

Sikarni, a traditional dessert, hails from the mountainous region of Nepal. It is widely cherished during the festival of Dashain, the longest and most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese people throughout the globe. Particularly enjoyed during family gatherings, Sikarni holds a special place in the heart of the Nepalese community. The allure of Sikarni lies in its simplicity; its primary ingredient being yogurt, which represents purity and is considered a symbol of good luck. Combined with the sweetness of sugar, the richness of dried fruits and nuts, and the exotic touch of saffron, Sikarni is a culinary testament to the Nepalese ethos of finding immense joy in simplicity.

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.