Desserts > Indian Desserts > Rice Pudding > Firni

Vanilla Bean Firni Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup raisins

Special equipment needed:
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk
- Serving bowls

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice in cold water and soak it for 30 minutes.
2. Drain the rice and grind it into a fine powder using a food processor or blender.
3. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat.
4. Add the ground rice to the milk and whisk until well combined.
5. Add the sugar and vanilla bean to the milk mixture and continue to whisk until the sugar dissolves.
6. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 25-30 minutes.
7. Remove the vanilla bean from the mixture and discard it.
8. Pour the firni into serving bowls and let it cool to room temperature.
9. Once the firni has cooled, sprinkle the chopped pistachios, almonds, and raisins on top.
10. Chill the firni in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 35 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 360
- Total fat: 12g
- Total carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 10g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Basmati rice can be substituted with regular long-grain rice.
- Whole milk can be substituted with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Chopped pistachios, almonds, and raisins can be substituted with any other nuts or dried fruits of your choice.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of saffron to the milk mixture for a fragrant and colorful twist.
- Use cardamom instead of vanilla bean for a traditional Indian flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of rose water for a floral flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Whisk the milk mixture constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- Use a non-stick saucepan to make the cleaning process easier.
- If the firni is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Storage instructions:
- Store the firni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the firni, microwave it for 30 seconds or until warm.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the firni in small clay pots for an authentic Indian touch.
- Garnish the firni with edible rose petals for a beautiful presentation.

Pairings:
- Serve the firni with a cup of hot chai tea for a perfect Indian dessert experience.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the firni as a dessert after a spicy Indian meal.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the firni is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the firni is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the firni within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

Food history:
- Firni is a traditional Indian dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, sweet, and fragrant with a hint of vanilla.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the firni chilled for a refreshing dessert.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Vanilla, Nutty, Aromatic