Aromatic Indian Cardamom Phirni with Saffron Threads

A Creamy Delight of Rice and Aromatic Spices

This traditional North Indian dessert is a luscious rice pudding enriched with fragrant cardamom and a hint of saffron for an exquisite finish. Perfectly sweet and comfortingly creamy, it’s an indulgent treat for any occasion.

1 h 30 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Rice Base

1/4 cup basmati rice

washed and soaked for 30 minutes

1 liter whole milk

1/2 cup sugar

For Aromatics

4 cardamom pods

crushed

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

A pinch of saffron threads

soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk

2 tablespoons rose water

For Garnishing

10-15 pistachios

slivered

1 tablespoon edible rose petals

(optional)

Preparation

Preparing the Rice for Phirni

Grind Rice

Drain the soaked rice and grind it to a coarse paste using a small amount of water.

Boil Milk

Heat milk in a heavy-bottomed pan until it comes to a gentle boil.

Add Rice Paste

Gradually add the rice paste to the boiling milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Infusing with Aromatics

Add Spices and Sugar

Add crushed cardamom pods and sugar to the boiling milk and rice mixture.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let simmer, stirring occasionally until the phirni thickens.

Continuously stir the mixture to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Finish with Saffron and Rose Water

Stir in the saffron-infused milk and rose water just before removing from heat.

Chill the phirni completely for a decadent, refreshing treat.

Cooking Process

Simmer and Stir

Continuously stir the mixture to reach the desired creamy consistency.

Infuse Flavor

Add rose water and soaked saffron for the rich, authentic taste.

Chill & Set

Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set.

Plating & Serving