Indian ice cream

Introduction:

Ice cream is a beloved dessert all around the world, and India is no exception. In India, ice cream is not just a dessert, it is a cultural phenomenon. The country has a rich tradition of making ice cream, with unique flavors and ingredients that reflect the diversity of the country's culinary culture. In this article, we will dive into the history and diversity of Indian ice cream.

History:

Ice cream has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. The Mughal emperors were known to enjoy a dessert called kulfi, which is a type of dense ice cream made from sweetened and flavored milk that is frozen in cone-shaped molds. Kulfi is still widely available in India today and is a popular dessert during the summer months.

In the early 20th century, the British introduced ice cream to India, and it quickly became a favorite among the middle and upper classes. The first ice cream parlor in India, Kwality Ice Cream, was opened in Mumbai in 1956, and it is still in business today.

Types of Indian Ice Cream:

1. Kulfi:

As mentioned earlier, kulfi is a dense and creamy ice cream that is made by simmering sweetened and flavored milk until it reduces to about one-third of its original volume. The mixture is then poured into cone-shaped molds and frozen. Kulfi is traditionally flavored with cardamom, saffron, pistachios, almonds, or rose petals.

2. Falooda:

Falooda is a popular dessert beverage that is made with layers of vermicelli noodles, rose syrup, and basil seeds, topped with kulfi or ice cream, and garnished with nuts and fruits. It is a refreshing and cooling dessert that is especially popular during the summer months.

3. Matka Kulfi:

Matka kulfi is a variation of kulfi that is served in earthenware pots called matkas. The clay pots help to keep the kulfi cold and enhance its flavor. Matka kulfi is often flavored with saffron, cardamom, and pistachios.

4. Gola:

Gola, also known as chuski or baraf ka gola, is a type of shaved ice dessert that is popular in India. The ice is shaved from a block of ice and mixed with flavored syrups like rose, mango, or kala khatta. It is then served on a stick, making it a convenient and refreshing dessert on hot summer days.

5. Ice Cream Sandwich:

The Indian version of the ice cream sandwich consists of two thin, crispy biscuits filled with a scoop of ice cream. The biscuits are usually flavored with cardamom, ginger, or cinnamon, and the ice cream can be any flavor of your choice.

6. Rabri:

Rabri is a traditional Indian dessert that is made by simmering sweetened milk until it thickens and forms a creamy texture. It is then flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rose petals and served with a scoop of ice cream. The combination of rich rabri and cold ice cream makes for a delicious and indulgent dessert.

Conclusion:

Indian ice cream is a delicious and unique dessert that reflects the country's rich culinary culture. From the creamy kulfi to the refreshing gola, there are many different types of Indian ice cream to try. Whether you are in India or abroad, be sure to try some of these delicious desserts d

Ingredients:
- 1 litre full cream milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
- 2-3 saffron strands (optional)

Method:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the milk on medium heat.

2. Keep stirring it occasionally, until the milk reduces to about 3/4th of its original volume. This may take around 30-40 minutes.

3. Add the sugar and cardamom powder and continue to cook the milk until the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

5. Add the chopped nuts and saffron strands to the cooled mixture and mix well.

6. Divide the mixture into kulfi moulds or any other small container of your choice.

7. Cover the moulds with foil and freeze them for at least 6-8 hours or overnight.

8. Once the kulfi is set, run the moulds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.

9. Gently remove the kulfi from the moulds and serve. You can also garnish it with chopped nuts and saffron strands.

Enjoy your homemade kulfi!