Shrikhand, Indian Dessert

Shrikhand is a very common yogurt based Indian custard. It is mostly popular in Maharashtra and Gujarat. In this recipe, plain yogurt is transformed into a mouth watering delicacy. It comes in various flavours like strawberry shrikhand, mango shrikhand etc. The plain as well as the flavoured recipe requires very few ingredients like curd, sugar, milk and cardamom powder. It is very easy to make and can be prepared at home. It can also be purchased from various food stores.

Ingredients of Plain Shrikhand

·  1 kg thick curd

·  3/4 cup powdered sugar

·  A few strands saffron

·  1 tablespoon warm milk

·  2 teaspoons cardamom powder (elaichi)

For Garnishing
Slivers of pistachios and almonds

Method of Preparing Plain Shrikhand

·  Hang the curds in a muslin cloth in a cool place for approximately 3 hours until all the liquid (whey) has drained off.

·  Rub the saffron into the warm milk until it dissolves. Mix together the hung curds, sugar, saffron mixture and cardamom in a bowl and churn using a hand blender.

·  Place in the refrigerator.

·  Serve cold garnished with slivers of pistachios and almonds.

Ingredients of Strawberry Shrikhand

·  1/2kg curds

·  300gms sugar

·  10 to 12 crushed strawberries

·  2 to 3 drops strawberry essence

·  1/2 tbsp almond crushed

Method of Preparing Strawberry Shrikhand

·  Hang curd in a clean muslin cloth overnight (6-7 hours).

·  Take into a bowl, add sugar and mix.

·  Keep aside for 25-30 minutes till the sugar is fully dissolved.

·  Beat well till sugar is fully dissolved into curd.

·  Pass through a big holed strong strainer, pressing with hand or spatula.

·  Add crushed strawberries and essence. Mix well.

·  Empty into a glass serving bowl and top with almonds.

·  Chill for 1-2 hours.

·  Serve.

To know more read:

http://www.indianetzone.com/17/shrikhand.htm