Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Mango Shrikhand Recipe – Creamy Indian Dessert with Saffron & Pistachios

Introduction

Oh, Shrikhand! Just the name conjures up memories of festive gatherings and sweet, happy moments. This Mango Shrikhand is a family favorite, and honestly, it’s one of the easiest Indian desserts you’ll ever make. It’s creamy, dreamy, and bursting with the tropical sweetness of mangoes, all beautifully balanced with the warmth of cardamom and a touch of saffron. I first made this for a Diwali celebration, and it disappeared so quickly! You’ll absolutely love how simple it is to whip up this delightful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dessert that tastes luxurious but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? This Mango Shrikhand is:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes!
• No-Bake: Perfect for hot days or when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
• Flavorful: The combination of mango, saffron, cardamom, and pistachios is simply divine.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences (more on that later!).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 0.5 cup (120ml) Curd (Dahi)
• 0.5 cup (120ml) Shrikhand
• 0.5 cup (120ml) Mango, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) Milk
• 2 teaspoon Sugar (or to taste)
• 0.5 teaspoon Cardamom Powder
• 1 pinch Nutmeg Powder
• 1 tablespoon Pistachios, chopped
• 1 pinch Saffron Strands

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Curd (Dahi): I prefer using full-fat curd for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but you might need to add a little extra milk to adjust the consistency.
• Mango Selection & Ripeness: Alphonso mangoes are the gold standard for this recipe, but any sweet, ripe mango will work beautifully. The mangoes should be soft to the touch and fragrant.
• Shrikhand: Traditional vs. Store-Bought: Traditionally, Shrikhand is made by straining yogurt overnight. But honestly, good quality store-bought Shrikhand works perfectly well and saves a ton of time! I often use store-bought when I’m short on time.
• Saffron Quality & Blooming: Saffron is precious! A little goes a long way. Blooming it (soaking it in warm milk) releases its color and flavor.
• Cardamom: Freshly Ground vs. Powder: Freshly ground cardamom has the most intense aroma. If you have the pods, grind them yourself! But good quality cardamom powder works just fine too.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s more like assembling, really.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the curd, milk, and store-bought shrikhand. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely blended.
2. Now, add the sugar, cardamom powder, saffron strands, and a tiny pinch of nutmeg powder. Mix well, making sure the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Time for the blender! Pour the mixture into a blender and blend until it’s super smooth and creamy. This usually takes about a minute or two.
4. Check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired creaminess. I like mine to be pourable but still thick enough to hold its shape.
5. Pour the Mango Shrikhand into glasses. Garnish generously with chopped pistachios.
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to make your Shrikhand even better:

• Achieving the Perfect Consistency: Start with less milk and add more gradually. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Preventing a Grainy Texture: Blending for a sufficient amount of time is key. If you’re still getting a grainy texture, try straining the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
• Enhancing the Saffron Flavor: Blooming the saffron in 1-2 tablespoons of warm milk for about 15-20 minutes really intensifies its flavor and color.

Variations

Want to get creative? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Mango Shrikhand: Substitute the curd and shrikhand with plant-based yogurt alternatives. Coconut yogurt works particularly well!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the ingredients of your store-bought shrikhand to be sure.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Cardamom): If you’re not a huge fan of cardamom, start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your liking.
• Festival Adaptations (Holi, Diwali): Add a sprinkle of edible silver leaf (varak) for a festive touch during special occasions. My grandmother always did this for Diwali!

Serving Suggestions

Mango Shrikhand is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate the experience:

• Serve chilled in elegant glasses.
• Garnish with a few strands of saffron and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.
• Pair it with a side of puri or mathri for a complete Indian meal.
• For a decadent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Mango Shrikhand can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavor might intensify slightly over time.

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, India. It’s a beloved part of Gujarati cuisine and is often served during festivals and celebrations.

Can I make Shrikhand ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What’s the best way to bloom saffron for maximum flavor?

Soak a pinch of saffron strands in 1-2 tablespoons of warm (not hot!) milk for about 15-20 minutes. This releases its color and flavor.

Can I use other fruits besides mango in this recipe?

Definitely! Strawberry, pineapple, and banana Shrikhand are all delicious variations.

How do I adjust the sweetness level of the Shrikhand?

Start with 2 teaspoons of sugar and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Is Shrikhand a healthy dessert option?

While it’s a dessert, Shrikhand does offer some nutritional benefits from the yogurt. It’s a good source of protein and calcium. However, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.