Pista Kulfi

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the flavorings: Take 2 tablespoons of warm milk from the pan and soak the saffron strands in it. Set aside 2 tablespoons of pistachios for garnish and chop them finely. Grind the remaining pistachios into a coarse powder. Don't over-grind or it will become a paste.

2. 2

   Reduce the milk: Pour the full-fat milk into a heavy-bottomed pan or pot. Bring the milk to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Scrape the cream from the sides of the pan and mix it back into the milk. Continue until the milk has reduced to about half its original volume.

3. 3

   Add thickeners and sweeteners: Stir in the milk powder, ensuring there are no lumps. You can make a slurry with a little milk first. Add the condensed milk and sugar. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

4. 4

   Add flavorings and cool: Turn off the heat. Stir in the coarse pistachio powder, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk. If using, add the rose water and mix well. Let the kulfi mixture cool down completely to room temperature.

5. 5

   Freeze the kulfi: Once cooled, pour the mixture into kulfi molds, small glasses, or popsicle molds. Cover the tops with aluminum foil or lids to prevent ice crystals from forming. If using popsicle molds, insert the sticks after about an hour of freezing. Freeze for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely firm.

6. 6

   Unmold and serve: To serve, briefly run the outside of the molds under warm water for a few seconds. Gently tap and slide the kulfi out onto a serving plate. Garnish with the reserved chopped pistachios and serve immediately.