Basundi is a delightful Indian dessert made by thickening milk and flavoring it with cardamom and nuts. It's creamy, rich, and absolutely delicious. A step-by-step guide to making Basundi:
Ingredients:
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 10-12 chopped almonds and pistachios
- 1 tablespoon chopped cashews
- 1 tablespoon chopped chironji (optional)
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the Milk:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
2. Simmer and Reduce:
- Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Continue stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
3. Add Saffron (Optional):
- If you're using saffron, soak a few strands in a tablespoon of warm milk and set it aside.
4. Continue Simmering:
- Allow the milk to simmer and reduce by about one-third to half of its original volume. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the quantity of milk and the size of your pan.
5. Add Sugar:
- Once the milk has thickened, add sugar and stir well. Continue to simmer.
6. Add Saffron and Nuts:
- If you soaked saffron strands, add them along with the soaking milk to the simmering milk. Also, add the chopped almonds, pistachios, cashews, and chironji (if using).
7. Keep Stirring:
- Keep stirring the Basundi continuously, especially as it thickens further. It should reach a creamy consistency.
8. Add Cardamom and Nutmeg:
- Once the Basundi has thickened to your desired consistency (it should coat the back of a spoon), add cardamom powder and nutmeg powder (if using). Stir well.
9. Remove from Heat:
- Turn off the heat and let the Basundi cool for a bit.
10. Chill and Serve:
- You can serve Basundi warm or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. It's often served cold, garnished with more chopped nuts.
11. Garnish:
- Before serving, you can garnish Basundi with a few strands of saffron and extra chopped nuts for a more luxurious look.
12. Enjoy:
- Enjoy this creamy and indulgent Basundi as a dessert or a sweet treat.
Basundi is a traditional Indian dessert often served at festivals and special occasions. It's loved for its rich and creamy texture, as well as its aromatic flavors.