Kulfi, a traditional Indian frozen dessert, is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. And when you add the sweetness of ripe mangoes to it, you get an irresistible treat that will make your taste buds dance. Chef Kunal Kapoor, a renowned culinary expert, shares a simple yet delightful mango kulfi recipe that can be easily made at home. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this refreshing dessert to life in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Mangoes – 2 ripe (preferably Alphonso or Kesar mangoes for the best flavor)
- Full Cream Milk – 500 ml
- Condensed Milk – 200 grams
- Sugar – 3-4 tablespoons (adjust based on the sweetness of the mangoes)
- Cardamom Powder – 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for an aromatic touch)
- Chopped Pistachios or Almonds – 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnishing)
- Saffron strands – A few (optional, for color and richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes
Start by peeling the mangoes and cutting them into small pieces. Blend the mango pieces into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. The riper the mangoes, the sweeter and more flavorful your kulfi will be.
Step 2: Boil the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the full cream milk and bring it to a boil on medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the milk simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process helps in thickening the milk.
Step 3: Add Condensed Milk and Sugar
Once the milk has thickened, add the condensed milk and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. Continue cooking the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, making sure it’s well combined and thickened to a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Flavoring the Milk
Now, add a pinch of cardamom powder to enhance the flavor, and if you like, you can also add a few saffron strands for a rich color and luxurious taste. Stir the mixture and remove it from the heat.
Step 5: Combine Mango Puree and Milk Mixture
Once the milk mixture has cooled slightly, add the fresh mango puree to the milk and stir gently to combine. This will give your kulfi its vibrant mango flavor.
Step 6: Freezing the Kulfi
Pour the mango and milk mixture into kulfi molds or small cups. If you don’t have molds, you can also use popsicle sticks or ice cube trays. Make sure the mixture is evenly distributed and smooth.
Step 7: Set the Kulfi
Cover the molds with foil or plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Let the kulfi freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best results. The longer it freezes, the creamier it becomes.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once your mango kulfi has set, remove it from the molds by dipping them briefly in warm water to loosen. Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds for an extra crunch and flavor. You can also drizzle some sweetened condensed milk or serve it with mango slices for a perfect finish.
Tips for the Best Mango Kulfi:
- Mango Selection: Always use ripe, sweet mangoes, preferably Alphonso or Kesar for an authentic taste.
- Creaminess: The key to making a creamy kulfi lies in cooking the milk slowly and reducing it to a thick consistency. Don’t rush this step.
- Sugar Adjustments: Depending on how sweet your mangoes are, you can adjust the amount of sugar. Condensed milk adds a lot of sweetness, so you may need less sugar.
Conclusion:
Chef Kunal Kapoor’s mango kulfi recipe brings the essence of Indian summers right into your home. This homemade kulfi is creamy, refreshing, and packed with the natural sweetness of mangoes, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it by yourself, this kulfi will undoubtedly be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delightful treat!
