Cool milk pudding scented with cardamom and rose water, finished with slivered almonds and pistachios for a delicate crunch.
Cornstarch gives Firni a smooth, spoonable set without eggs or rice grains. Cardamom perfumes the milk as it warms, and a small measure of rose water supplies a floral finish.
Whisk the starch into cold milk first so it disperses evenly. Add the rose water after cooking and measure it carefully; too much can overpower the dairy and nuts.
Method
Whisk the cornstarch with 1 cup cold milk until completely smooth.
Warm the remaining milk with sugar and cardamom over medium heat for , stirring, until steaming. Whisk the starch mixture again and pour it in slowly.
Cook over medium-low heat for , stirring constantly, until thick and gently bubbling. Maintain the gentle bubbling for , then remove from heat and stir in rose water.
Divide among eight bowls. Cool for , then cover and chill for until set. Sprinkle with almonds and pistachios before serving.
Forkue tips
- Press wrap onto the surface before chilling if you prefer pudding without a skin.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Serve cold and add the nuts just before eating; freezing makes the starch-thickened pudding watery.
Kitchen gear
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Firni: FAQ
Why is the pudding lumpy?
The starch may have met hot milk before it was dispersed. Whisk it into cold milk first, and whisk again just before adding it to the pan.
Can I omit the rose water?
Yes. Cardamom alone gives the pudding plenty of fragrance; leave the other quantities unchanged.
How do I store and reheat Firni?
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Serve cold and add the nuts just before eating; freezing makes the starch-thickened pudding watery.
How long does Firni take?
About 2 hr 35 min in total: 2 hr 20 min prep and 15 min cooking.
What do I need to make Firni?
The key ingredients are whole milk, cornstarch, ground cardamom, almonds and pistachios, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Firni?
Press wrap onto the surface before chilling if you prefer pudding without a skin.
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