Easy Shrikhand Recipe [Indian Yogurt Dessert]

Delicious homemade Shrikhand - a traditional Indian yogurt dessert! Creamy and sweet, perfect for festive occasions.

Growing up in Gujarat, Shrikhand was more than just a dessert; it was a cherished part of our cultural heritage.

In our home, the process of making Shrikhand was a tradition passed down through generations, a ritual that brought the family together.

The rich, creamy yogurt was strained to perfection, infused with saffron's golden hues, warm cardamom, and sweet.

Shrikhand was not just a dessert; it was a symbol of celebrations, festivals, and special moments.

Whether it was served during Diwali, weddings, or simply as a delightful treat on a sunny afternoon, Shrikhand connected us to our roots and reminded us of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Gujarat.

It was a taste of home, a testament to our heritage, and a sweet reminder that the flavors of our culture were deeply intertwined with the irresistible allure of Shrikhand.

Jump to:

• What Is Shrikhand
• Ingredients For Shrikhand
• Recipe For Shrikhand
• How To Store Shrikhand
• Tips
• FAQ's
• Pair Shrikhand With
• Easy Shrikhand Recipe [Flavored Yogurt Dessert]
• Indian Desserts

What Is Shrikhand

Shrikhand is a popular Indian dessert that originates from the western state of Gujarat. It is made from strained yogurt (known as hung curd or chakka), which is sweetened and flavored with various ingredients such as saffron, cardamom, and sometimes even nuts like almonds and pistachios.

Shrikhand has a creamy and smooth texture, and it's known for its rich and sweet taste with a hint of spice from the cardamom.

To prepare shrikhand, yogurt is hung in a cloth to remove excess whey, resulting in a thicker consistency. The strained yogurt is then mixed with sugar and the desired flavorings. It can be served as a dessert on its own, or it's often paired with puri (a deep-fried bread) to make a classic Indian dish called "Poori-Shrikhand."

Shrikhand comes in various flavors, and it's a popular dessert during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Diwali, and special occasions in India. It's loved for its sweetness and cooling properties, making it a refreshing treat, especially during hot weather.

Ingredients For Shrikhand

Here's a description of the ingredients used in Shrikhand:

Yogurt: Yogurt is the primary ingredient in Shrikhand. It's rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein. In Shrikhand, it's strained to remove excess whey, resulting in a thicker, creamy consistency.

Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar, also known as icing sugar or confectioner's sugar, is used to sweeten the Shrikhand. It dissolves easily and blends smoothly with the yogurt to provide sweetness to the dessert.

Saffron: Saffron is a luxurious spice known for its vibrant color and delicate flavor. In Shrikhand, saffron strands are soaked in milk to infuse the dessert with a beautiful golden hue and a subtle, aromatic taste.

Cardamom: Cardamom is a fragrant spice that adds a warm, slightly citrusy flavor to the Shrikhand. It complements the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the overall taste.

Nuts (Optional): Chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios are often used as garnishes for Shrikhand. They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the creamy dessert, as well as visual appeal.

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in Shrikhand, making it a beloved dessert in Indian cuisine.

Recipe For Shrikhand

Here's a basic recipe for making traditional saffron and cardamom flavored Shrikhand:

Strain the Yogurt: Take a clean muslin cloth or a fine-mesh strainer.

Place the yogurt in the cloth or strainer.

Tie it up and hang it over a bowl for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, in the refrigerator to allow the excess whey to drain out. You can also use a yogurt strainer if you have one.

Prepare the Saffron: Soak a pinch of saffron strands in 1 tablespoon of warm milk. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until the saffron releases its color and flavor. This will give the Shrikhand a lovely saffron hue.

Mix the Ingredients: Once the yogurt has strained and thickened, transfer it to a mixing bowl.

Add powdered sugar and whisk until the sugar is completely incorporated and the mixture becomes smooth.

Add Flavorings: Stir in the saffron milk mixture and ground cardamom. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Chill: Place the Shrikhand in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld and to chill it.

Serve: Before serving, garnish with chopped nuts and a few saffron strands if desired.

Enjoy: Serve your homemade Shrikhand as a dessert, either on its own or with puri, chapati, or as a topping for fruit salad. Serve Batata Bhaji, and Khamang Kakdi to make it a complete meal.

Remember that Shrikhand is a very customizable dessert, and you can adjust the sweetness and flavorings to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different flavors, like adding crushed cardamom seeds for extra aroma or incorporating fruit purees for a fruity twist. Enjoy!

How To Store Shrikhand

Store Shrikhand in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days to maintain its freshness. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods, and discard if you notice any signs of spoilage.

Tips

Here are some tips for making delicious Shrikhand:

Use Full-Fat Yogurt: Full-fat yogurt yields a creamier and richer Shrikhand. However, you can use low-fat yogurt if you prefer a lighter version.

Strain Thoroughly: Ensure you strain the yogurt properly to remove excess whey, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency.

Adjust Sugar to Taste: Add powdered sugar gradually and adjust to your preferred level of sweetness.

Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavorings, such as rose water, mango pulp, or even cocoa powder, to create unique variations of Shrikhand.

Garnish: Garnish with chopped nuts, saffron strands, or even edible rose petals to enhance the visual appeal.

Chill Before Serving: Let the Shrikhand chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pairing: Shrikhand pairs wonderfully with puri (deep-fried bread) or can be used as a topping for fruit salads or desserts.

Keep It Clean: Ensure all utensils and containers are clean and dry to prevent contamination.

Consistency: If your Shrikhand is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little milk or cream.

Serve Fresh: Shrikhand tastes best when served fresh, so try to consume it within a few days of preparation for the best flavor and texture.

FAQ's

Pair Shrikhand With

Indian Desserts