Kesar, also known as saffron, is one of the world’s most prized and aromatic spices. Known for its golden hue and delicate flavor, this spice has been a beloved ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines for centuries. Beyond adding a rich color and taste, kesar is known for its health benefits, including its potential to boost mood, improve digestion, and act as an antioxidant. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of delicious Kesar recipes, from drinks and desserts to savory dishes, each highlighting the versatility and luxurious flavor of this golden spice.
- Kesar Milk (Saffron Milk)
Kesar milk, also known as saffron milk, is a classic, comforting drink with a beautiful golden color. Often consumed before bedtime, this drink is thought to promote relaxation and sound sleep.
Ingredients:
2 cups of milk (any kind)
6-8 strands of kesar (saffron)
1-2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder (optional)
Chopped nuts (such as almonds and pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
Heat the milk in a saucepan on medium heat.
Add the saffron strands to the milk and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the sugar or honey to sweeten.
For added flavor, sprinkle some cardamom powder and mix well.
Pour into a glass or cup, garnish with chopped nuts, and enjoy warm.
This soothing drink is perfect for winding down after a long day and is packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
- Kesar Pista Kulfi (Saffron Pistachio Kulfi)
Kulfi, a traditional Indian ice cream, takes on a luxurious twist with kesar and pista (pistachio). Creamy, nutty, and with a delicate saffron flavor, this frozen dessert is a hit during hot summer months.
Ingredients:
1 liter of full-fat milk
1/2 cup of condensed milk
1/4 cup of sugar
10-15 strands of kesar (saffron)
1/4 cup of chopped pistachios
1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
Instructions:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil and simmer until it reduces to about half its original quantity.
Soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk and add them to the boiling milk mixture.
Stir in the condensed milk, sugar, chopped pistachios, and cardamom powder.
Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
Allow the mixture to cool, then pour it into kulfi molds or small cups.
Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
To serve, dip the molds in warm water to release the kulfi, and garnish with more pistachios if desired.
- Kesar Pulao (Saffron Rice)
Kesar pulao is a fragrant and lightly spiced rice dish often served at Indian weddings and special occasions. The saffron not only adds a vibrant yellow color but also infuses the rice with a delicate floral aroma.
Ingredients:
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water or vegetable broth
10-15 saffron strands
2 tablespoons of milk
1 tablespoon of ghee or oil
1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and raisins)
1 cinnamon stick
2-3 cloves
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water and soak it for 20 minutes.
Warm the milk slightly and soak the saffron strands in it.
In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil, then add the cinnamon stick and cloves.
Add the nuts and sauté until golden.
Drain the rice and add it to the pot, stirring gently for a few minutes.
Add the saffron-infused milk, water or broth, and salt to the pot, stirring to combine.
Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm, garnished with more nuts.
- Kesar Phirni (Saffron Rice Pudding)
Phirni is a traditional Indian rice pudding, thickened with ground rice and flavored with kesar. It’s creamy, comforting, and a perfect ending to a festive meal.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup rice
4 cups of milk
1/4 cup sugar
10-15 saffron strands
1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
Rinse and soak the rice for 30 minutes, then drain and grind it to a coarse texture.
In a pan, bring the milk to a boil and add the ground rice.
Simmer on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Add the sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands soaked in a little warm milk.
Continue cooking until the phirni reaches a thick, creamy consistency.
Pour into serving bowls, let it cool, and then refrigerate for a few hours.
Garnish with chopped nuts and serve chilled.
- Kesar Malai Ladoo (Saffron Cream Cheese Balls)
These sweet and creamy ladoos are flavored with kesar and are a delightful treat for festivals and special occasions. They are easy to make and only require a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 cup of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), crumbled
1/4 cup condensed milk
10-15 saffron strands soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
Chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the paneer and condensed milk.
Add the saffron milk and cardamom powder, and mix well.
Shape the mixture into small round balls.
Garnish with chopped pistachios and refrigerate for an hour before serving.
- Kesar Chai (Saffron Tea)
Kesar chai is a delightful twist on traditional tea. The saffron infuses the tea with a subtle aroma and a golden color, making it a perfect drink for special occasions or a relaxing afternoon.
Ingredients:
1 cup of water
1/2 cup of milk
1 teaspoon black tea leaves or tea bag
5-6 saffron strands
Sugar or honey, to taste
A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and add tea leaves or tea bag.
Add the saffron strands and let the tea steep for a few minutes.
Pour in the milk, add sugar or honey, and let it simmer.
Stir in a pinch of cardamom powder if desired, then strain into a cup.
Enjoy your soothing, golden saffron tea.
Conclusion
From drinks and desserts to rice dishes, kesar has the unique ability to elevate simple recipes into something memorable and luxurious. This ancient spice not only adds beauty and fragrance to dishes but also boasts numerous health benefits. Whether you’re sipping on a warm cup of kesar milk or indulging in a creamy saffron-flavored dessert, these recipes allow you to savor the essence of saffron in various forms.
Incorporating kesar into your cooking may seem like an indulgence, but a little goes a long way. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the golden allure of kesar with these recipes, and add a touch of luxury to everyday meals.