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Golden Saffron Basundi in a bowl with pistachios
Rich and creamy Saffron Basundi

Saffron & Cardamom Basundi

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Cakes and Desserts
Saffron Basundi is the 'dessert of kings'. Saffron, the world's most expensive spice, imparts not only a beautiful golden hue but also a distinct, floral-metallic aroma. In the traditional method, milk is boiled until its natural sugars caramelize, while added cream ensures extra velvetiness.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time 50 mins
⌛ Total Time 1 hr
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 450 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Indian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large, wide pot (for faster evaporation)
  • Silicone spatula

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Tree Nuts (Almond, Pistachio)

Instructions

1 ✓

Soak saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm milk in a small glass and set aside.

Tip: This 'blooming' releases the saffron dye (crocin), ensuring an even golden color.
2 ✓

Pour remaining milk into the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to lowest setting immediately.

Tip: Milk boils over easily; stay close until heat is adjusted!
3 ✓

Simmer milk slowly, stirring occasionally and scraping cream sides back into the liquid. Cook 30-40 minutes until reduced by one-third.

Tip: Continuous stirring and scraping creates the characteristic texture.
4 ✓

Add sugar, the saffron milk, cinnamon, and heavy cream. Cook another 10-15 minutes until thick and creamy.

Tip: Sugar thins the milk initially, so further cooking is needed.
5 ✓

Remove from heat. Stir in half the almonds and pistachios. Let cool.

Tip: The nuts stay crunchy in the creamy dessert this way.
6 ✓

Serve in small bowls, garnished with remaining nuts.

Tip: It is more refreshing when served cold, and flavors meld better.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use ground saffron?
Yes, but threads look more elegant. The flavor will be the same.
It's too sweet.
Thickening milk concentrates lactose. Use less added sugar next time, or add a drop of lemon juice when serving (careful not to curdle it!).

Ingredients

  • 4 cups Whole Milk
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 pinch Ground Cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 large pinch Saffron Threads
  • 1/4 cup Almonds (blanched, slivered)
  • 1/4 cup Pistachios (unsalted, chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Heavy Cream