Kiwi Phirni is a delightful and healthy dessert that brings a creative twist to traditional Indian sweets. This creamy, flavorful dish combines the goodness of milk, rice, and the refreshing taste of kiwi. Ideal for health-conscious individuals, this recipe can be modified to use jaggery or sugar-free pellets instead of sugar. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to create this mouth-watering dessert at home.
Ingredients for Kiwi Phirni
Essentials (Serves 6)
- 2 liters milk
- 100 grams powdered rice
- 5 ml kewra water
- 250 grams kiwi
- 100 ml condensed milk
- 10 grams green cardamom powder
- 150 grams sugar
Step-by-Step Preparation
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Step 1: Boil Milk with Sugar and Condensed Milk:
Start by boiling the milk, condensed milk, and sugar in a deep non-stick pan. Stir continuously to prevent a skin from forming on the surface. This step is crucial for ensuring a smooth and creamy texture for your phirni.
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Step 2: Cook Rice Powder with Milk:
Once the milk mixture has thickened, add the powdered rice and green cardamom powder. Cook for another 20 to 25 minutes, stirring constantly. The rice will cook and blend into the milk, creating a rich and luscious base for the phirni. Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the mixture from the flame and allow it to cool.
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Step 3: Add Kiwi Pulp to the Rice Mixture:
Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add fresh kiwi pulp. The kiwi adds a refreshing twist to the traditional phirni. After adding the pulp, let the mixture rest for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Finally, add the kewra water, which imparts a fragrant aroma to the dessert.
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Step 4: Chill and Serve:
Move the blend onto separate serving dishes and keep them chilled. Chilling the phirni enhances its flavor and texture, making it even more enjoyable. Serve the kiwi phirni chilled, garnished with slices of fresh kiwi or a sprinkle of cardamom powder.
Tips for the Perfect Kiwi Phirni
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Choosing the Right Rice:
Using the right type of rice is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your phirni. Opt for finely powdered rice to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
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Stirring is Key:
Stirring the milk mixture continuously while it boils and cooks prevents lumps from forming and ensures the rice cooks evenly. This step is vital for achieving the signature silky texture of phirni.
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Enhancing the Flavor:
Kewra water and green cardamom powder are traditional flavor enhancers in phirni. They add a unique fragrance and depth of flavor to the dish. You can also experiment with other flavorings, such as rose water or saffron, to customize the phirni to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Kiwi Phirni is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Here are a few serving suggestions:
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Festive Presentation:
Serve the phirni in decorative bowls, garnished with fresh kiwi slices and a sprinkle of cardamom powder. This makes for an attractive and festive dessert presentation.
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Healthy Twist:
To make the phirni healthier, replace sugar with jaggery or sugar-free pellets. This not only reduces the calorie content but also adds a unique flavor to the dessert.
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Accompaniments:
Pair the phirni with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information
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Caloric Content:
A serving of Kiwi Phirni contains a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. While the exact calorie count may vary based on the ingredients used, this dessert can be made healthier by substituting sugar with natural sweeteners like jaggery or using low-fat milk.
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Health Benefits:
Kiwi Phirni offers several nutritional benefits:
Milk: Provides calcium, protein, and essential vitamins.
Kiwi: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C.
Cardamom: Known for its digestive benefits and aromatic properties.
Conclusion
Kiwi Phirni is a delightful fusion of traditional Indian dessert and a modern twist of fresh kiwi. This creamy, aromatic dish is perfect for health-conscious individuals and those looking to experiment with creative cooking. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and refreshing dessert that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the journey of making and savoring this unique and tasty treat!
