by Shrikhand is a traditional Gujarati dessert made from strained yogurt (curd), sweetened with sugar and flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. This rich, creamy treat is a festive favorite, often enjoyed during celebrations like Janmashtami or Diwali, and pairs beautifully with puri or as a standalone delight. Whether you’re indulging in Gujarat’s culinary heritage or craving a refreshing sweet, this detailed Shrikhand recipe will guide you to create this luscious dessert at home. Let’s whisk up some sweetness!
Prep Time
- 20 minutes (plus 4-6 hours for straining yogurt)
(Includes straining and mixing)
Cook Time
- 0 minutes
(No cooking required)
Total Time
- 20 minutes (active time) + straining time
(A chilled delight with some prep!)
Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)
This recipe serves approximately 4-5 people (about 3-4 cups). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:
- Calories: 1200 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 60g
- Saturated Fat: 35g (from yogurt)
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 130g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 120g (from sugar and nuts)
- Sodium: 400mg (naturally occurring in yogurt)
- Cholesterol: 150mg (from yogurt)
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 20% of Daily Value (DV) (from yogurt)
- Calcium: 80% of DV
- Vitamin B12: 40% of DV
- Iron: 10% of DV (from nuts)
Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.
Ingredients
For the Shrikhand:
- 4 cups full-fat yogurt (curd) – about 1 kg, for hung curd
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar – adjust to taste (or granulated sugar, finely ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder – for aroma
- A pinch saffron strands – soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds – for crunch
- 2 tablespoons slivered pistachios – for garnish
- 1 teaspoon rose water – optional, for fragrance
Equipment Needed:
- Muslin cloth or fine sieve
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Small bowl for saffron
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Hung Curd
- Place a muslin cloth over a fine sieve or strainer and set it over a bowl. Pour 4 cups full-fat yogurt into the cloth.
- Tie the cloth into a bundle and hang it over a bowl or sink (or place a weight on top) to drain the whey. Let it strain for 4-6 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight, until you get thick hung curd (about 2 cups). Discard the whey or save it for other uses.
Step 2: Mix the Shrikhand
- Transfer the hung curd to a mixing bowl. Whisk it gently until smooth and creamy.
- Add 3/4 cup powdered sugar gradually, whisking to blend it evenly. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder, the soaked saffron (with milk), and 1 teaspoon rose water (if using). Mix well until the saffron’s golden hue spreads through the shrikhand.
- Fold in 1 tablespoon slivered almonds for a subtle crunch.
Step 3: Chill and Garnish
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrikhand for 1-2 hours to chill and let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, garnish with 2 tablespoons slivered pistachios and the remaining 1 tablespoon slivered almonds.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve chilled in bowls as a standalone dessert or with hot puris for a classic Gujarati pairing.
- Shrikhand stays fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days – store in an airtight container.
Benefits of Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a creamy dessert with some wholesome perks! Here’s why it’s a delightful choice:
- Protein-Rich: Yogurt provides high-quality protein for muscle health.
- Calcium Boost: A great source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Probiotic Power: Yogurt offers gut-friendly bacteria for digestion.
- Energy Source: Sugar and nuts provide quick energy with a satisfying taste.
- Cooling Effect: A refreshing treat, perfect for warm days.
- Festive Nutrition: A traditional dessert that blends indulgence and goodness!
Note: Due to its sugar and fat content, enjoy shrikhand in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
