What is Kulfi? Kulfi, also called qulfi is an ice cream-like dessert popular throughout the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. The origins of this dessert is unknown.
According to some historical accounts, on the occasion of important ceremonies, special cone-shaped metal cups were served, containing a dessert made from evaporated milk, flavored with pistachios and saffron. The containers were immersed in ice that came directly from the Himalayas and the dessert could thus be served fresh.
Today, the consumption of Kulfi, the traditional Indian ice cream, is extremely widespread and in the streets of Indian cities it is very common to find stalls of street vendors of kulfi called kulfiwallahs.
As in the past, they store their Kulfi in earthenware pots called matka, which are filled with ice and keep the ice cream cool. The dessert is served in the shape of a cone on a tray or more commonly with a wooden stick, just like our classic ice lollies.
Kulfi differs from ice cream in its rich flavours, typical of Indian cuisine, which make it a unique product of its kind. Unlike ice cream, Kulfi is not whipped, has a thicker and creamier consistency and takes longer to melt.
It is also said to be healthier, as it does not include additives or artificial flavors. No eggs are used, only evaporated milk, and in some cases (depending on the type of recipe) even fresh cream.
The secret of making Kulfi lies in cooking the milk: it is flavoured with cardamom and left to boil for several minutes until it loses volume, but acquires a truly delicious flavour.
The flavors of kulfi are really special and in line with typical Indian flavors. Forget the classic flavors of our ice cream like strawberry, chocolate and lemon, and prepare yourself for something completely different.
Among the most traditional flavors we find rose, mango, cardamom (elaichi), saffron (kesar or zafran), pistachio and malai cream, the most classic flavor of all and slightly creamier than the others. Malai Kulfi is a particular type of cream originating from the Indian subcontinent and is frequently used in the preparation of desserts.
For those who don't like spicy foods, there are also modern variations, such as peanuts and avocado, and even more in line with Western flavors, such as apple, orange and strawberry.
How to prepare Kulfi, the traditional Indian ice cream? The main ingredients used to prepare Kulfi are evaporated milk, sugar and Indian spices such as cardamom, saffron and rose water.
On the internet you can find different recipes. The most traditional ones are slightly complex to prepare at home, but there are also simplified and above all faster recipes. As with all Indian desserts, the secret to making a good Kulfi is patience.
How to serve Kulfi? Prepare a bowl of hot water, immerse the aluminum container for a few seconds and then with a long toothpick, or an ice cream stick, pierce the Kulfi and slowly remove it from the container. Place all the Kulfi on a plate and decorate them with chopped pistachios or almonds.
If you want to try your hand at making Kulfi, these are 2 simple and quick recipes you can rely on:
Cardamom Kulfi: Among the traditional flavors of kulfi you can't miss the cardamom version, a spice that, if used in the right doses, gives your recipes truly special flavors. Try it and believe it!.
Mango Kulfi: Mango kulfi is one of the most loved. The recipe differs slightly from the traditional preparation, but it is quicker and easier to prepare, and the result is still delicious.
Kesar Pista Kulfi: If you want to try Kesar Pista Kulfi, follow our recipe where we will also explain all the tricks to make it even better and to serve it in the best way.
The famous Indian ice cream has an exotic and special flavor that conquers the first bite. Making it at home is very easy! If you want to leave your family enchanted with a fresh dessert, do not stop preparing kulfi. Try the different flavors and choose your favorite.
To enjoy a delicious ice cream this summer, this kulfi recipe is an interesting choice. We tell you step by step.
Servings: 5
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Ingredients:
250 ml condensed milk
250 ml heavy cream
250 ml evaporated milk
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
50 gr chopped almonds
50 gr peeled pistachios
Saffron, cardamom or cinnamon stick
How to prepare homemade kulfi:
In a glass dissolve the cornstarch with the milk. Stir well so that no lumps form. In a pot, place the evaporated milk with a few strands of saffron, a pinch of cardamom or a cinnamon stick depending on the flavor you want. Bring to low heat until it boils. Add the condensed milk, the milk cream and the dissolved starch. Stir with a wooden spoon for three minutes or until the kulfi thickens. Remove from the fire.
Add the chopped almonds and pistachios. Place the mixture in a large mold or individual lolly containers.
Keep in the freezer overnight.
Have a nice week ahead.