Kulfi, Indian ice cream

November 6, 9:44 PMAtlanta Ethnic Foods ExaminerBeth Robinette

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Flavors of Kulfi
Beth Robinette

Kulfi or Qulfi is a popular flavored frozen dessert from India, but is also found in other parts of Asia and the Middle East. It’s not exactly like Western ice cream, because kulfi is not whipped. The frozen dessert is solid and dense and takes much longer to melt. It comes in various traditional flavors, including pistachio, mango, cardamom (elaichi), and saffron (kesar). Newer variations include apple, orange, peanut, and avocado.

You can find Indian style ice cream at many Chaat houses or Indian snack shops, like this sign from the Global Mall. But it is surprisingly easy to make. Many desserts in this cuisine contain milk products. This recipe for almond flavored Kulfi comes from Gulshan Singh, an Indian and Thai chef who gives cooking classes, private parties and caters.

Almond Kulfi

1 can condensed milk
1 pint heavy cream or half and half (you can use fat free)
1 can evaporated milk
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup raw, unsalted almonds, sliced (you can soak the almonds overnight in the cream to make them easier to eat)
12 whole cardamom seeds, crushed with a rolling pin or mortar and pestle
Saffron for color (optional)

In a bowl, mix all the ingredients well. Freeze in ice cube trays or in a covered bowl for 2 hours. Mix well before serving.

Variations: You can add pureed fruit to the mix. Mango is particularly good. Try replacing the almonds with pistachios for a different taste.

Check for more Indian recipes. Or reviews of  Atlanta Metro Indian restaurants.