Smooth Persian Custard: A Delicate and Elegant Dessert
Silky, aromatic, and visually stunning, Smooth Persian Custard is a refined dessert that beautifully blends traditional Persian flavors with timeless comfort. Infused with the warm essence of cardamom and delicately scented with rose water, this custard offers a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with a vibrant sprinkle of finely ground pistachios, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole milk | 2 1/4 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Cornstarch | 4 tablespoons |
| Ground cardamom | 1 teaspoon |
| Rose water (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Finely ground pistachios | 4 tablespoons |
Instructions
- Warm the Milk: In a medium saucepan, gently heat the whole milk over low heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, add the cornstarch. Pour in a few tablespoons of the warm milk and whisk vigorously until smooth and lump-free, forming a slurry.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cornstarch slurry, sugar, cardamom, vanilla extract, and rose water (if using) to the saucepan with the remaining warm milk. Whisk well to combine.
- Cook the Custard: Continue cooking over low to medium-low heat, stirring constantly. The mixture will thicken. Once it reaches a creamy consistency and bubbles gently, it’s done.
- Portion the Custard: Remove from heat and ladle into 4 large or 8 small ramekins or bowls.
- Prevent a Skin from Forming: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of each custard to avoid a skin forming while cooling.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, until fully set and chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove plastic wrap and top each custard with ground pistachios before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Smooth Persian Custard is a dessert that captures the elegance of Persian culinary tradition in a simple, comforting dish. Light yet indulgent, it’s perfect for special gatherings or as a serene end to any meal. Whether you include the floral hint of rose water or keep it purely cardamom and vanilla, this custard is sure to impress with its balanced flavor and luxurious texture.
