Shahi Tukda, a royal dessert of Mughal origin, is a delectable treat made of fried bread soaked in sweetened milk. It is a rich and aromatic dessert that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something sweet. While the traditional Shahi Tukda is served as a flat, square piece of fried bread, you can easily elevate it by turning it into Shahi Tukda Rolls for a fun and modern twist.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step recipe to make Shahi Tukda Rolls at home with ease.
Ingredients:
- For the Shahi Tukda Rolls:
- 4 slices of white bread (preferably without crust)
- 2 tablespoons of ghee or clarified butter
- 1 cup of full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons rose water or kewra water (for fragrance)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews) for garnish
- Cardamom powder (optional)
- For the milk syrup (Rabri):
- 1 cup full-fat milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few saffron strands (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
- Start by removing the crusts from the slices of bread. Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice, making them thinner and more pliable for rolling.
- Heat a little ghee or clarified butter in a pan. Lightly toast the bread slices until golden and crisp on both sides. This step adds texture and richness to the rolls.
2. Make the Rabri (Sweet Milk Syrup):
- In a separate pan, boil 1 cup of milk and let it reduce to a creamy consistency over medium heat. Stir occasionally.
- Once the milk reduces to about half, add sugar and cardamom powder. Continue stirring until the milk thickens into a rich, creamy consistency.
- Add saffron strands for extra flavor and color. Remove from heat once the milk syrup is ready.
3. Make the Sugar Syrup for Soaking:
- In another small saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup sugar. Heat it up until the sugar dissolves completely. Add rose water or kewra water for a floral aroma.
- Optionally, add a few saffron strands to enhance the fragrance and color of the syrup. Allow it to come to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat.
4. Assemble the Shahi Tukda Rolls:
- Carefully roll the toasted bread slices and place them on a serving plate.
- Pour the prepared milk syrup over the bread rolls, allowing the rolls to soak in the sweet liquid for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the warm Rabri (milk syrup) over the soaked bread rolls to infuse them with rich flavor.
- Garnish the Shahi Tukda Rolls with chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, and cashews for added crunch and texture.
- You can also sprinkle a pinch of cardamom powder for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the rolls to soak and settle for about 5 minutes to absorb the syrup.
- Serve the Shahi Tukda Rolls chilled or at room temperature for a perfect dessert.
Tips for Making Perfect Shahi Tukda Rolls:
- Bread Selection: Use soft, white bread for this recipe. Stale bread is not ideal, as fresh bread absorbs the syrup better.
- Soaking: Don’t over-soak the bread. The rolls should be soft and flavorful, but not soggy.
- Garnishing: You can experiment with different nuts or even dry fruits like raisins for added texture.
- Rabri Consistency: Ensure the Rabri is thick enough to coat the rolls. It adds a creamy layer of flavor that makes the dessert irresistible.
Why You Should Try Shahi Tukda Rolls:
This version of Shahi Tukda offers a delicious twist on a classic. The rolls are easy to serve, making them perfect for gatherings or dinner parties. The combination of the crisp, toasted bread, fragrant milk syrup, and creamy Rabri creates an indulgent dessert that will leave your guests asking for more.
Enjoy this royal treat and impress your family and friends with the flavors of Mughal-inspired indulgence, all from the comfort of your home!
