Badam Kulfi (Almond Ice cream)

Kulfi is a frozen dessert which is not whipped like the regular ice cream. It is more richer, more denser and hence it takes more time to melt. I found this recipe at Manjula's Kitchen and was very excited to try it. Thanks Manjula for this scrumptious dessert. 

A cold treat to end the summer! This lusciously smooth kulfi takes you to your dreamier world. It is infused with cardamom and added almonds for a nice crunch. The kulfi dissolves in your mouth and you just can't keep your spoon down. Do enjoy this Indian ice cream at your home. And here goes the recipe,
Ingredients:

4 cups Whole Milk
1/4 cup Sugar
1 White Bread Slice
1tsp Cornstarch
1/2tsp Cardamom (Coarsely ground)
10 Almonds (chopped)
 
How to:

• Remove the crust off of the bread and slice'em into squares. 

• Blend together 1/2 cup milk, bread pieces and cornstarch to a smooth paste.

• In a wide pan, boil the remaining milk at medium-high heat by stirring the pan continuously.

• Once it comes to boil, let the milk cook for another 12 mins until it is reduced. 
• Now reduce the heat to medium and pour the bread-cornstarch mixture and cook for 4 mins, until it thickens.

• Then add the sugar and chopped almonds, mix well and cook for another couple of mins.

• Finally switch off and add the cardamom powder.

• Let it cool completely and pour the mixture in to a bowl. Wrap the bowl with a plastic wrap, making sure it touches the top of the milk mixture.

• Freeze it overnight and serve cold garnished with more almonds.

Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

Well, its another way to add some healthy crunch to your diet. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber. These roasted chickpeas are pretty addictive and keeps your bag of potato chips at bay. It is a great on-the-go snack and you can munch anytime guilt-free. What more to say, snack on it and you will love it just like i did. Here goes the recipe,

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups Chickpeas/Garbanzo beans (soaked)

1/2tbsp Olive Oil

1/2tsp or less Chilli powder

Salt

How to:

• Pressure cook the soaked chickpeas for 2-3 whistles. (Alternatively, you can use canned garbanzo beans. Make sure you rinse thoroughly and pat dry.)
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
• Lay the chickpeas over a paper towel and dry'em completely.

• Place them on a baking sheet and add the oil, chilli powder and salt.

• Mix'em with your hands and make sure they aren't crowded.

• Bake for 45 mins, until crispy.

• Let it cool on the sheet before storing it.
• Serve as a evening snack with tea or coffee.