Rich, creamy barfi flavoured with aromatic spices cardamom and saffron. This speedy version uses milk powder instead of khoya, taking less than an hour to make.
Grind 8 strands saffron strands in a pestle and mortar or spice grinder, then transfer to a small bowl with ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder and set aside.
Grease then line a small 6 inch (15 cm) square dish with parchment paper so the ends hand over the sides and set aside.
Melt 50 g ghee on medium heat in a medium size pan and stir in 200 g sugarusing a wooden spoon.
Pour in 240 ml milk and the saffron and cardamom mixture and stir to mix.
Reduce heat to low and add 300 g whole milk powder stirring slowly till all the lumps dissolve and the mixture is smooth. While stirring take care not to let the mixture stick to the sides or the bottom of the pan. Carry on stirring for another 8-10 minutes till the mixture has reduced and thickened to a less sticky paste.
Remove from the heat and using the wooden spoon transfer the mixture to the lined dish ensuring it reaches all four corners. Cool on the counter then cover and freeze for 30 minutes, till the barfi is no longer sticky and the parchment paper comes away easily.
To serve, gently lift the opposite sides of parchment paper to remove the barfi from the dish. Sprinkle with crushed almonds or pistachios (optional), slice into 15 and serve.
Notes
Use good quality ingredients for best results. We use Nestlé Nido whole powder milk.Have all ingredients nearby as there are no pauses in this recipe.Use an enamel or non-stick pan and a wooden spoon for best results.Grease then line the dish with parchment paper to keep the paper from moving.Scrunch up a sheet of parchment paper before lining the dish so it sits in the corners.Store leftovers in a sealed box in the fridge for up to 5 days.Note: Barfi will loose moisture and dry further over time.