Shrikhand is a smooth, chilled dessert made by straining curd into a thick base and sweetening it with sugar, cardamom and saffron. A festive favourite in Gujarati and Maharashtrian households, it’s traditionally served alongside puri.
Shrikhand at a Glance
| Cuisine | Gujarati |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Meal | Dessert |
| Course | Dessert / Festival Sweet |
| Food Type | Vegetarian |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Cooking | 0 minutes |
| Total time | About 4.5-6.5 hours |
| Servings | 4 |
| Suggested serving | 1/2 cup |
Shrikhand Ingredients
- 2 cups thick curd; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 tsp cardamom powder; a few saffron strands soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk; 2 tbsp chopped pistachios and almonds; a pinch of nutmeg powder (optional).
How to Make Shrikhand
- Tie the curd in a muslin cloth and hang it over a bowl to drain excess whey for 4-6 hours, or until it thickens into a firm, chakka-like consistency.
- Transfer the strained curd to a mixing bowl.
- Add powdered sugar and whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Add cardamom powder, saffron milk and nutmeg if using; mix well.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds just before serving.
Cooking Tips
Use thick, full-fat curd for the best texture — thinner curd takes longer to strain and yields less chakka. Hang the curd in a cool place while straining, especially in warm climates, to prevent spoilage. Whisk the sugar in thoroughly for a completely smooth, lump-free shrikhand.
Variations
Add chopped mango puree for the popular Amrakhand (mango shrikhand) variation. A few strands of saffron and cardamom are classic, though some households add a scoop of tutti-frutti for a festive touch.
Substitutions
Greek yoghurt can be used as a shortcut, needing less straining time since it’s already thick.
What to Serve With Shrikhand
Serve chilled, traditionally alongside puri for a classic Gujarati combination.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable — shrikhand is served chilled.
Shrikhand Nutrition Facts
Nutrition varies with exact ingredients, oil quantity and serving size. Approximate values per serving:
| Calories | 220 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Values are estimates for planning purposes and should be treated as approximate.
Potential Nutritional Benefits
A probiotic-rich dessert offering calcium from curd, though sweetened with sugar, so best enjoyed in moderation.
Age & Serving Guidance
Suitable for toddlers from around 10-12 months onward in small quantities, with nuts finely crushed or omitted.
For young children, take particular care with hot food, spice level, piece size, known allergies and individual chewing/swallowing ability.
Allergens & Food Safety
Allergens: Contains dairy (curd) and nuts (pistachios, almonds).
Use fresh curd and strain in a clean cloth in a cool, hygienic environment.
Shrikhand FAQs
Why is my shrikhand runny?
The curd likely wasn’t strained long enough; hang it for the full 4-6 hours until it reaches a thick, chakka-like consistency.
Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of straining regular curd?
Yes, Greek yoghurt is already thick and can shortcut the straining process significantly.
Why is my shrikhand grainy?
Powdered sugar that isn’t whisked in thoroughly, or granulated sugar used instead, can leave a gritty texture; use fine powdered sugar and whisk well.
Can I make shrikhand ahead of a festival?
Yes, it keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it convenient to prepare in advance.
What is Amrakhand?
It’s a mango variation of shrikhand, made by folding fresh mango puree into the sweetened strained curd base.
What is shrikhand traditionally served with?
Puri is the classic pairing, especially in Gujarati and Maharashtrian meals.
Can I make shrikhand without nuts?
Yes, nuts are a garnish and entirely optional.
How long does the curd need to hang for straining?
Typically 4-6 hours, though thicker curd may need slightly less time to reach the right consistency.
Helpful Resources
If you’re getting around Kuwait, check live routes, fares and timings on Kuwait Bus Route. And if you run a website or blog of your own, try these free SEO tools to check and improve it.
Desserts, Festival Recipes, Indian Sweets, Vegetarian Recipes — #Desserts #FestivalRecipes #IndianSweets #VegetarianRecipes