A Sweet Celebration
During the holy month of Ramadan, Iftar feasts serve as a cherished occasion for family and friends to gather and break their fast. Central to these gatherings
is the sweet course, and Hina Khan recently delighted her fans by sharing a peek into her own Iftar spread, prominently featuring her homemade Phirni. The actress took to Instagram to showcase her culinary efforts, presenting the dessert in four elegant small bowls, each adorned with a garnish of shredded coconut. This thoughtful addition elevated the visual appeal and promised a burst of flavor, making the Phirni a focal point of her festive meal. Her accompaniment of healthy items, such as dry figs, dates, chia pudding, and various nuts, underscored a balance of tradition and well-being in her Ramadan observance.
Crafting Creamy Phirni
To recreate the delightful Phirni that Hina Khan prepared for her Iftar, you'll need a few key ingredients. Start with 1/2 cup of basmati rice, which should be thoroughly washed and then soaked for approximately 30 minutes. After draining, grind the rice into a slightly coarse paste, using a small amount of water or milk to achieve the right consistency. In a thick-bottomed pot, bring 1 litre of full-cream milk to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually introduce the ground rice paste, ensuring you stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Allow this mixture to cook on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it thickens to a creamy texture. Once thickened, stir in 1/2 cup of sugar (adjusting to your preferred sweetness) and continue cooking until the Phirni achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. Enhance the aroma and flavor by incorporating 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder, a few strands of saffron, and 1-2 tablespoons of rose water, if desired. After turning off the heat, let the mixture cool slightly before carefully pouring it into individual serving bowls. For the best experience, chill the bowls in the refrigerator for several hours. Finally, just before serving, generously sprinkle the top with chopped nuts, such as almonds and pistachios, and a dusting of desiccated or shredded coconut for a delightful finish.
