For those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine, the thought of yogurt being used as a dessert may seem strange. However, in India, there are some delicious and unique yogurt-based dishes that are both sweet and savory. One of these dishes is shrikhand, an ancient Indian delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries. Let’s explore what it is, where it comes from, and why it tastes so good.
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What is Shrikhand?
Shrikhand is made with yogurt which is hung in muslin cloth so that all the liquid (whey) is removed, leaving behind a thick cream known as ‘Chakka’ or ‘Amrakhand’. This cream is then combined with sugar and other ingredients such as cardamom, saffron, mango, or nuts to create a delicious dessert.
In Gujarat and Maharashtra, this dish is served during festivals such as Janmashtami or Ganesh Chaturthi as prasadam (food offering). In some parts of Gujarat, it is also served during Diwali celebrations. It can be eaten plain or served with puri (a type of flatbread). It can also be used as filling for gujiya (a type of sweet dumpling), or used as a side dish to go with pulao (rice pilaf).
The Taste of Shrikhand
Shrikhand has a unique flavor profile due to its combination of sweet and savory ingredients. The sweetness comes from the sugar or honey added to the yogurt while savoriness comes from the saffron and spices used in recipes such as cardamom or cinnamon. Nuts like almonds add another layer of texture while fruits like mango provide an additional hint of sweetness. All these ingredients combine together to create a delicious dish that can be enjoyed any time of day!
Shrikhand Ingredients
The process of making Shrikhand is an intricate, multi-layered process. It requires skillful execution and patience to make a truly delicious shrikhand. Every ingredient has its role to play in this delightful Indian dessert and understanding each one can help you perfect your own version. Let’s take a closer look at the role of each ingredient in making this traditional sweet dish.
1. Yogurt
At the heart of every successful shrikhand is yogurt (dahi or curd). The quality of yogurt determines the flavor and texture of your final product. Make sure to use full-fat, fresh yogurt for the best results. You can also use Greek yogurt if you prefer a thicker consistency.
2. Sugar
The sugar content in shrikhand depends on personal preference. Some recipes call for up to twice as much sugar as yogurt; however, it’s always better to start with less and add more if needed. Be sure to dissolve the sugar completely before adding other ingredients or else your shrikhand may turn out grainy.
3. Saffron
Saffron gives your shrikhand an unmistakable yellowish hue that makes it look even more delicious! Add a pinch or two of saffron strands while you are mixing the yogurt and sugar together for maximum flavor and color payoff. Additionally, adding crushed cardamom seeds will add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
4. Dry Nuts
Dry nuts like almonds, pistachios, cashews, and raisins are often added as toppings or garnishes on top of shrikhand before serving. They not only add crunch but also give the dessert a richer flavor profile due to their high-fat content that complements the sweetness from the sugar perfectly! Plus, they offer additional nutritional benefits too!
As you can see, each ingredient plays an important role in making a delicious bowl of Shrikhand—from providing sweetness to ensuring creaminess and richness in texture and flavor. Understanding each component helps ensure that you get the best possible results when making this classic Indian dessert! So don't forget - full-fat plain yogurt is essential for great-tasting Shrikhand!
How To Make Shrikhand
It is made from hung curd or chakka, which is a process of draining the water from yogurt to create a thicker consistency and some other simple ingredients.
Making Hung Yogurt
- Hung yogurt, or strained yogurt, is the heart of making shrikhand.
- To make it, start with two cups of plain store bought greek yogurt or homemade yogurt and place it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve set over a bowl.
- Make sure the bowl is deep enough so that all of the liquid can drip into it; if need be you can use another bowl underneath to catch any overflow.
- Refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours and let gravity do its work as the liquid drains off and thickens the yogurt.
- Discard the liquid from your bowl and reserve the thickened yogurt in a separate container for future use.
Making Shrikhand
- Now that you have hung yogurt ready to go, you can begin making shrikhand!
- Once your hung yogurt is at room temperature (this will help it mix better with other ingredients)
- Mix in sugar or honey until fully incorporated before adding cardamom powder and saffron strands soaked in warm milk (optional).
- Mix all these ingredients together until they form one even consistency before adding any chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
- Now your shrikhand is ready to enjoy! Serve chilled with extra nuts or dried fruit on top if desired.
With just a few simple steps and ingredients you can turn ordinary whole-milk yogurt into an extraordinary treat that everyone will love! So what are you waiting for? Get started today and make some delicious shrikhand!
Different Types of Shrikhand
From the traditional kesar pista shrikhand to more exotic varieties like rose shrikhand, there are many different types of this delightful dessert. Let’s explore some of the most popular versions.
1. Kesar Pista Shrikhand
Kesar pista shrikhand is one of the most classic forms of shrikhand. This version combines the fragrant taste of saffron with crunchy pieces of pistachio to create a truly unique and delicious experience. It's often served alongside traditional Indian dishes like puri or paratha for a real treat!
2. Mango Shrikhand
This variety is made by blending together yogurt with fresh mango pulp and sweetened condensed milk. It has an incredibly thick texture and intense mango flavor that makes it one of the most popular versions among all ages. Mango shrikhand pairs perfectly with hot chapatis or even plain rice for a tasty dessert option!
3. Badam Pista Shrikhand
This version combines the flavors of almonds and pistachios to give it an extra nutty punch that's hard to resist! With its creamy texture and crunchy nuttiness, badam pista shrikhand makes for a great accompaniment to any meal. This sweetened yogurt also widely enjoyed during festivals such as Diwali due to its festive nature!
4. Rose Shrikhand
The sweetness from rose petals or syrup infuses wonderfully into the yogurt base in this version of shirkand. Not only does it have a beautiful pink hue but it also boasts an enchanting floral scent that will make your mouth water instantly! Rose shirkand is perfect for special occasions or just when you need something special to finish off your meal with.
5. Honey Nut Shrikhand
If you're looking for something different, then this honey nut variant might be just what you need! Yogurt is blended together with honey, cashews, almonds, raisins, and cardamom powder to give it an amazing nutty flavor that goes well with just about anything – especially when it’s served chilled on a hot summer day!
6. Rajbhog Shrikhand
This type takes its name from the famous Rajbhog sweet which consists mainly of rabdi (thickened cream) and mawa (dried evaporated milf). Creamy yogurt is blended together with rabdi and mawa before being flavored with saffron strands and nuts like almonds, cashews & pistachios and tutti frutti- making it one indulgent treat no one can refuse!
There you have it – six different types of delicious shirkand that will tantalize your taste buds in ways you never imagined possible! Whether you go for traditional kesar pista or try something new like rose or honey nut – each variant promises its own unique experience that will leave you wanting more every time.
People Also Ask [FAQs]
Yes, Shrikhand is good for you as it is full of healthy fats and probiotics that help to absorb nutrients from the food and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time while also promoting sound sleep.
Shrikhand can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator and for 1 to 2 months in a freezer frozen.
Wrap Up: Shrikhand
- Shrikhand is an ancient Indian dessert perfect for anyone looking to add some unique sweetness to their menu!
- Its mild flavor makes it great for those who don't like overly sweet desserts while still providing enough complexity for all taste buds alike.
- The process for making shrikhand begins with hung yogurt—a process that involves straining out excess liquid from regular whole milk yogurt—which gives this dessert its creamy texture and delightful flavor profile.
- If you're looking for a unique and delicious dessert, then you have to try shrikhand! This Indian treat is perfect for anyone looking for something sweet and creamy. Let us know what you think of the recipe in the comments below!
Recipe
Yummy and Delicious Shrikhand Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads crushed
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ cup powdered sugar or to taste
- 1 tablespoon dry nuts almonds or pistachios, chopped for garnishing
Instructions
- The first step is to make hung yogurt. To do this, line a colander with cheesecloth and place it over a large bowl. Pour the yogurt into the colander and allow it to drain for 3-4 hours. This will help to remove any excess water from the yogurt and make it nice and thick.
- Next, add the saffron threads and ground cardamom to the yogurt and stir well. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it is smooth.
- Then, slowly add powdered sugar, whisking until it is fully dissolved.Once the sugar is dissolved, refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour to allow it to thicken further.
- When you are ready to serve, garnish with chopped nuts and enjoy!
Notes
- If you want a thicker shrikhand, refrigerate it for a few hours before serving. This will help the yogurt to thicken up nicely.
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