Shahi Tukra, often referred to as “royal bread pudding,” is a delectable Pakistani dessert that’s fit for royalty. This rich and creamy treat is made by frying bread slices to golden perfection and soaking them in a saffron-infused sugar syrup. It’s a perfect way to end a meal with a touch of Indian decadence. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to make Shahi Tukra at home. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- A few saffron strands
- 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
For the Bread:
- 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
- Ghee or clarified butter for frying
For the Rabri (Sweetened Milk):
- 1 liter of full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- A few saffron strands
- 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 1 tablespoon of chopped pistachios and almonds
Directions:
1. Making the Sugar Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add a few saffron strands and a pinch of cardamom powder for flavor.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. Then, set it aside.
2. Preparing the Rabri (Sweetened Milk):
- Pour 1 liter of full-fat milk into a wide, heavy-bottomed pan.
- Heat the milk over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
- When it reduces to about half, add 1/2 cup of sugar, a few saffron strands, and 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder. Continue to simmer.
3. Frying the Bread:
- Heat ghee or clarified butter in a separate pan.
- Cut the bread slices into your preferred shape (triangles or rectangles).
- Fry the bread slices until they turn golden brown on both sides. Drain excess ghee on paper towels.
4. Assembling Shahi Tukra:
- Dip the fried bread slices in the prepared sugar syrup for a few seconds, ensuring they absorb the syrup.
- Place the soaked bread slices on a serving plate.
5. Pouring Rabri:
- Gently pour the saffron-infused rabri over the bread slices. Ensure each slice is well-coated.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds.
6. Serving:
- Shahi Tukra can be served warm or chilled. Enjoy this royal dessert that’s fit for a king!
Conclusion:
Shahi Tukra is a regal dessert that brings the flavors of India to your plate. This rich and indulgent treat is the perfect way to end a special meal or celebrate a festive occasion. The combination of crispy, syrup-soaked bread and creamy rabri makes it a delight for your taste buds.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I use whole wheat bread for Shahi Tukra?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat bread for a slightly healthier version, but white bread is more traditional.
2. Can I make the rabri in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the rabri ahead of time and refrigerate it. Warm it before pouring it over the bread slices.
3. Can I substitute ghee with oil for frying the bread?
- Ghee adds a distinct flavor, but you can use oil if you prefer.
4. What’s the ideal thickness for the rabri?
- Aim for a thick, creamy consistency, similar to condensed milk.
5. How long can I store Shahi Tukra?
- It’s best when consumed on the same day, but you can refrigerate it for 1-2 days, though the bread may soften over time.
