Mango Kulfi Recipe – An Exotic Indian Ice Cream Treat

Introduction:
Summer calls for refreshing treats, and ice creams fit the bill perfectly. If you’re in search of an alternative to the usual ice cream flavors, kulfi is your answer. Originating from India and popular in Pakistan and Nepal, kulfi offers a denser and creamier texture than traditional Western ice creams. This is achieved by boiling milk with sugar until it’s condensed. Commonly flavored with ingredients like cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, and mango, kulfi offers a delightful burst of exotic flavors.

Preparation:

Time Required:
Preparation: 10 minutes
Freezing: 6 hours
Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

300g of mangoes (peeled and deseeded)
350ml coconut milk
3 tablespoons of agave or maple syrup
1 or 2 green cardamoms
8 strands of saffron
Chopped pistachios for garnishing

Instructions:

Saffron Preparation: Place the saffron strands in a small container, pour in 2 tablespoons of hot water, and let it sit for 10 minutes to hydrate. Then, strain the water.
Cardamom Preparation: Open the cardamom pods and discard the outer layer. Using a mortar and pestle, grind the seeds into a fine powder. Alternatively, you can use pre-ground cardamom; in that case, just add a pinch or an eighth of a teaspoon.
Mango Blend: In a blender, combine the chopped mango, your choice of sweetener (agave or maple syrup), ground cardamom, and the saffron-infused water. Blend until you have a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Coconut Milk Addition: Pour in the coconut milk and blend again, ensuring a well-combined, emulsified mixture. The resulting cream should be slightly thick, resembling the consistency of custard.
Freezing: Pour the mixture into ice cream molds and freeze for a minimum of 6 hours. To remove the kulfi from the mold, you might need to dip the mold in warm water briefly.
Serving: Once unmolded, garnish the kulfis with chopped pistachios and a few strands of saffron for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

Tips: For a variation, you can also use a combination of coconut milk and vegan condensed milk to achieve the desired creaminess.

Indulge in this delectable treat and transport yourself to the aromatic streets of India, all from the comfort of your home. Enjoy!