Kesar Pista Shrikhand (Saffron and Pistachio Yogurt Pudding)

Shrikhand is a great dessert originating in Maharashtra and enjoyed by everyone!It is made with thick Yogurt and sugar with added flavourings and this simple combination will get transformed into one of the most delicious desserts imaginable.That is the power of good food – simple yet exquisite!

NOTE – Always use Yogurt with full cream milk for Shrikhand

Preparation time : 15 minutes

Draining Time for Yogurt : 5 – 6 hours

Chilling Time : 5 – 6 hours

Makes : 7 – 8 servings

INGREDIENTS

1/2 kg Yogurt with full cream milk

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tbsp warm milk

7- 8 strands of Saffron(Kesar)

2 tbsp chopped Pistachios(Pista)

1 tbsp crushed sugar candy crystals (Mishri)

1 tsp Saffron essence (optional)

1 tsp edible yellow colour (optional)

METHOD

Take a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel in a container and pour the Yogurt into it.Tie up the ends and tie it over a sink or kitchen wash basin to drain the whey(water from the Yogurt).You can collect this water as it makes the softest of Rotis and adds a great taste to any gravy.

Hang the yogurt for around 5 – 6 hours or more till the whey stops dripping and the cheese from the Yogurt collects as a mass inside the cheesecloth.

Dissolve the Saffron in the warm milk and stir for the lovely yellow colour to mix in the milk.

Take the hung yogurt cheese in a bowl.Add the prepared Saffron milk,sugar,essence and colour(if using) and 1 tbsp chopped Pistachios.Mix well and add the crushed sugar candy (if using).

Chill the Shrikhand for 5 – 6 hours or till semi solid.

Serve small helpings in attractive glass bowls!Enjoy the taste of this simple yet royal dessert!