Authentic Shrikhand Recipe – Cardamom & Pistachio Indian Dessert

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Shrikhand Recipe – Cardamom & Pistachio Indian Dessert

Introduction

Oh, Shrikhand! Just the name conjures up memories of festive gatherings and sweet, creamy goodness. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a little slice of Indian tradition. I remember the first time I tried to make it myself – it felt a bit daunting, but honestly, it’s surprisingly easy! And the reward? A luscious, cooling dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for authentic Shrikhand, bursting with cardamom and studded with pistachios. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrikhand recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking (basically none!). It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect when you’re entertaining. Plus, the combination of creamy yogurt, fragrant cardamom, and crunchy pistachios is simply divine. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert:

• 200 grams Shrikhand
• 1.5 cups curd (yogurt)
• 0.75-1 cup milk
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2-3 green cardamoms pods
• 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg powder
• 6-7 pistachios, sliced
• 1-2 pinches saffron strands

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference:

Shrikhand: Understanding the Base

Shrikhand is essentially strained yogurt, and it forms the heart of this dessert. You can find ready-made Shrikhand in Indian grocery stores, which saves a step. Or, you can make your own by hanging plain yogurt in a muslin cloth for several hours until all the whey drains out.

Curd (Yogurt): Choosing the Right Kind

Full-fat yogurt works best for a richer, creamier Shrikhand. If you’re using Greek yogurt, you might need to add a little extra milk to achieve the desired consistency. About 1.5 cups (360ml) is perfect, but feel free to adjust!

Cardamom: The Queen of Spices & Regional Variations

Green cardamom is essential for that classic Shrikhand flavor. I like to lightly crush the pods before adding them to release their aroma. Some regions in India also add a tiny pinch of black cardamom for a smoky note – feel free to experiment!

Saffron: A Touch of Luxury

Saffron adds a beautiful color and subtle floral aroma. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it! Soaking the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for about 10-15 minutes before adding them to the Shrikhand helps release their color and flavor.

Pistachios: Enhancing Texture & Flavor

Pistachios provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. You can use pre-sliced pistachios or chop them yourself. Almonds are also a delicious alternative if you prefer!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some Shrikhand!

1. First, combine the Shrikhand, yogurt, milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and nutmeg powder in a mixing bowl.
2. Now, blend everything together really well. You can use a hand blender for a super smooth result, a whisk if you want a bit of a workout, or even a traditional madani (Indian whisk) for an authentic touch. Blend until everything is beautifully smooth and creamy.
3. Pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to chill. This isn’t strictly necessary if you’ve used pre-chilled ingredients, but it really helps the flavors meld together.
4. Give it a taste! Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed. Everyone has their own preference, so make it just right for you.
5. Pour the chilled Shrikhand into serving glasses.
6. Garnish generously with pistachio slices and those gorgeous saffron strands.
7. Serve immediately, or keep refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

Achieving the Perfect Smoothness

The key to a truly luxurious Shrikhand is a smooth texture. Blending for a longer time really helps. If you’re using a whisk, be patient and put in some elbow grease!

Adjusting Sweetness & Tanginess

Shrikhand should have a lovely balance of sweetness and tanginess. Start with 2 tablespoons of sugar and add more gradually, tasting as you go. If you prefer a tangier Shrikhand, you can use slightly less sugar.

The Importance of Chilling

Chilling allows the flavors to develop and the Shrikhand to thicken slightly. It also makes it incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm day.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Shrikhand

My friend Priya, who’s vegan, makes a fantastic Shrikhand using coconut yogurt and a touch of cashew cream. It’s surprisingly similar to the traditional version!

Gluten-Free Shrikhand (Naturally Gluten-Free)

Good news! Shrikhand is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it.

Spice Level Adjustment – Adding a Hint of Ginger

For a little warmth, try adding a tiny pinch of grated ginger along with the cardamom. It’s a lovely addition, especially during the colder months.

Festival Adaptations – Janmashtami & Holi

Shrikhand is a popular dessert during Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) and Holi (the festival of colors). You can add a touch of rosewater for a festive twist!

Serving Suggestions

Shrikhand is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Puri (Indian fried bread)
• Thepla (Gujarati flatbread)
• Fresh fruit

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Shrikhand in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might thicken slightly upon standing, so you can add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Shrikhand and where does it originate from?

Shrikhand is a creamy, strained yogurt dessert that originated in Gujarat and Maharashtra, India. It’s a beloved part of Indian cuisine and is often served during festivals and special occasions.

Can I make Shrikhand ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shrikhand is a great make-ahead dessert. You can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for saffron strands?

If you don’t have saffron, you can use a tiny pinch of turmeric powder for color, but it won’t have the same flavor. Rosewater is another option for adding a delicate aroma.

How do I prevent Shrikhand from becoming grainy?

Using full-fat yogurt and blending thoroughly are key to preventing graininess. If your Shrikhand does become slightly grainy, you can try blending it again for a longer time.

What is the difference between Shrikhand and Mishti Doi?

Both Shrikhand and Mishti Doi are yogurt-based desserts, but they differ in preparation and flavor. Mishti Doi is fermented yogurt sweetened with jaggery, while Shrikhand is strained yogurt flavored with cardamom and other spices.