Afghan Firni
A delicate and creamy milk pudding, often flavored with cardamom and rosewater, and garnished with pistachios and almonds. It's a popular dessert for celebrations and special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Milk
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Sugar(adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder
- 1 tsp Rosewater
- 2 tbsp Pistachios(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Almonds(blanched and slivered, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 1 cup of milk until smooth. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure no lumps of cornstarch remain. - 2
In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3 cups of milk and sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
- 3
Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents sticking and lumps. - 4
Remove from heat and stir in the cardamom powder and rosewater.
💡 Tip: Add rosewater at the end to preserve its delicate aroma. - 5
Pour the firni into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish.
- 6
Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled and set.
💡 Tip: Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. - 7
Garnish with chopped pistachios and slivered almonds before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use whole milk.
- ✓Adjust sugar to your preference.
- ✓Cardamom and rosewater are key flavorings; don't skip them.
🔄 Variations
- Add a few saffron strands to the milk for a subtle color and flavor.
- Incorporate a touch of vanilla extract along with rosewater.