With summers upon us, we can enjoy the return of refreshing foods and beverages including the popular dessert, Kulfi. This creamy delicacy has a nostalgic appeal that instantly captures our hearts. Its desi taste and aroma adds to its attractiveness. Although it originally comes from Mughal cuisine, it is now enjoyed all over the world and is a favorite of people of all ages. The name Kulfi is derived from the Persian word “kulfi”, which means “covered”. Typically, this frozen dessert is made by boiling full cream milk until it becomes thick and creamy, and then sugar, cardamom, and dry fruits are added to it, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. This is a really unique treat!
What is matka kulfi?
Matka Kulfi is a delicious twist on the classic ice cream, characterized by a denser and creamier texture than standard ice cream. According to Test Atlas, milk and cream are boiled while stirring to make matka kulfi and then sugar, chopped almonds, cashews and pistachios are added to this mixture, which is cooked until the milk thickens. The mixture is then poured into cups and frozen, some add chopped nuts as a garnish to enhance its richness before serving.
Read also: 5 Unique Kulfi Recipes That Make The Perfect Dessert
What is the difference between Kulfi and Matka Kulfi?
Many people often get confused by the similar taste. ice cream and matka kulfi. These two desserts share the same origin and are made using a similar process. However, if you delve deeper, there are some fundamental differences between the two that set them apart. Let’s explore these differences.
Shape:
Kulfi is usually cone shaped or rectangular in shape. whereas matka kulfi is served in earthen pots called matkas, which gives it a unique shape and taste.
Texture:
Kulfi has a creamy, dense texture, similar to ice cream, while matcha kulfi is more dense and firmer, often with a slightly grainy texture.
Serving:
ice cream Usually served on sticks or in small bowls, whereas matka kulfi is traditionally served in the clay pots in which it is made.
Tips to be kept in mind while making matka kulfi:
As mentioned earlier, matka kulfi is a delicious dessert that can be easily made at home. All you have to do is keep a few tips and tricks in mind to make it look like a pro.
Use full fat milk:
Matka Kulfi is made by boiling milk till it thickens. Hence, it is important to use full fat milk to get the creamy texture.
Keep stirring the milk:
Keep stirring the milk continuously when it comes to boil, this will prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan and will not burn. This will also help break up any lumps that may have formed.
Add Flavor:
Matka Kulfi is traditionally made with the flavor of cardamom, saffron and pistachio. You can also add other flavorings like rose water, almond extract, or vanilla extract.
Use sweetened condensed milk:
Sweetened condensed milk is a major ingredient in matka kulfi. This helps sweeten and thicken the mixture.
Let it cool down:
Once the kulfi mixture has thickened, let it cool at room temperature before pouring it into molds. This will prevent the pots from cracking due to temperature difference.
Freeze Overnight:
Matka kulfi needs to be frozen for at least six to eight hours or overnight to set completely. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Garnish before serving:
Before serving, garnish the matka kulfi with chopped pistachios, saffron threads or any topping of your choice.
How to make Matka Kulfi in 5 minutes:
Now that you have the tips, let us show you a recipe that takes no more than five minutes to prepare this delicious dish. It is easy, hassle free and does not require milk, mawa or whipped cream to prepare. Seems right, doesn’t it? So, without any further delay, let’s have a look at this wonderful instant matka kulfi. This recipe has been shared by food vlogger Parul on her YouTube channel ‘Cook with Parul’.
Ingredients for instant matka kulfi:
To make this dish, you need almonds, cashews, pistachios, cardamom, sugar, fresh cream, saffron and milk powder.
How to make instant matka kulfi:
In a grinding jar, add ground almonds, cashews, pistachios, cardamom and sugar. Now take a bowl and add fresh cream to it and whisk till it becomes frothy. Add saffron (soaked in milk) and milk powder and mix well. Now add dry fruit mixture to it and mix everything well.
Take a matka or small cup and pour the batter into it. Garnish with chopped dry fruits and cover with foil. Freeze for at least six hours and serve cold.
Watch the detailed recipe video of instant matka kulfi here:
Read also: Slurp Alert: Beat The Heat With This Lip-Smacking Cutting Chai Kulfi (Watch Recipe Video)
Try this recipe at home and do let us know how you liked it.