Kesar Phirni / Saffron Phirni

Phirni - a sweetened rice pudding in a milk base, garnished with saffron and nuts happens to be quite a popular dessert in North India. It is very simple and quick in terms of preparation. This particular phirni happens to be the basic version and there are a few variations like this aam / mango phirni.

Ingredients: (For 4 servings)
8 - 10 saffron strands
4 Tbsp rice (I used Basmati)
4 cups milk
Sugar to taste (5 - 6 Tbsp)
1/2 tsp cardamom powder
2 Tbsp each - Almonds & pistachios (blanched & slivered)

Preparation:
* Wash and soak rice in water for about 30 minutes or in hot water for about 10 minutes. Then drain and grind the rice to a slightly coarse paste adding water as needed.
* Dissolve the saffron strands in two tablespoons of warm milk and keep aside.

The cooking part:
* Bring the milk to boil, reduce the heat and gently stir in the rice paste. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Simmer until the mixture thickens, about 12 - 15 minutes. Phirni should be fairly thick like custard.
* Add sugar and cardamom powder and continue to simmer until the sugar dissolves. Add the saffron and turn off the stove. Let cool and refrigerate the phirni.
* Serve chilled phirni in individual bowls garnishing with nuts.

And check what the other marathoners are cooking on Day 6 during blogging marathon #5. 
Curry in a hurry under 30 min: Priya Suresh, Srivalli, Usha
Seven Days of Colorful Dishes Kid's Special: Vardhini
Seven Days of Indian Sweets: Harini,  Veena & Me
Seven Days of Regional Specials: Aarthi, Kalyani, Pavani, Shylaja
Summer Coolers: PJ,  Vaishali
Under 15 mins Quick Breakfast: Sushma Pinjala

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