Eating shrikhand is truly a wonderful treat. This Maharashtrian dessert is made from thick and creamy yogurt sweetened with aromatic spices. It is traditionally eaten with pooris (fried Indian bread) and the combination is absolutely heavenly. Shrikhand is usually made for special occasions, celebrations and religious ceremonies but I try to make it as often as possible. It is a family favorite and best of all, it is very easy to make.

Aamrakhand is simply mango flavored shrikhand and is equally delicious. The recipes I have provided below are from my very own grandmother. I hope you will try them and enjoy them as much as I do.


SHRIKHAND

Ingredients:

1 quart plain good quality thick yogurt
1/2 cup of good quality sour cream
1 tbsp milk
pinch of saffron
1/3 cup of sugar (depends on taste, Splenda/Equal may also be substituted)
1/4 tsp freshly ground cardamom
toasted and crushed pistachios (or almonds) for garnish

cheesecloth or fine muslin

Method:

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and sour cream. Using a cheesecloth or fine muslin, add the yogurt and sour cream mixture and drain out any excess liquid. This is easily done by tying and hanging the cheesecloth in a cool dry place over a large bowl to catch any of the liquid. This is best left overnight and the process will result in a very thick and creamy yogurt/sour cream base.

In a small bowl, combine the milk and saffron threads. Let sit for 15-20 minutes, the milk will turn a brilliant orange color. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained yogurt/sour cream base. With an electric mixer, beat on low for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Then add the sugar. You can easily control the amount of sugar depending on your personal preferences, you can also substitute Splenda/Equal.

Blend the sugar with the yogurt/sour cream mixture and add the saffron/milk mixture and the ground cardamom. Beat on medium high for a few minutes until smooth and that's it! Simple and easy! Refrigerate and served chilled. Garnish with pistachios or almonds.


AAMRAKHAND

This is simply mango flavored shrikhand.

Using the recipe for Shrikhand given above, add 1 cup of fresh mango pulp or puree fresh mango pieces. You may substitute canned mango pulp as well.


Variations:

Try adding fresh pineapple, peach, pomegranate seeds or passionfruit puree for a different but delicious flavor.