Mangaluru Ice Barfi
Mangaluru Ice Barfi, also known as Mangalore Ice Halwa, is a unique and delectable Indian dessert that hails from the coastal city of Mangalore in Karnataka. This sweet dish is renowned for its rich flavor, smooth texture, and its resemblance to ice in terms of color and sheen. The history of this dessert is as storied as its taste, with roots tracing back to traditional Indian sweet-making techniques.
History of Mangaluru Ice Barfi
The origins of Mangaluru Ice Barfi can be traced back to the kitchens of South India, where the fusion of local ingredients with traditional methods resulted in unique confections. Mangalore, known for its vibrant food culture, embraced this dessert as a festive treat, cementing its status as a must-have during celebrations. The use of milk, sugar, and cardamom gives this sweet its characteristic flavor, capturing the essence of the region’s culinary artistry.
Ingredients
- Milk - 1 liter
- Sugar - 500 grams
- Ghee - 100 grams
- Cardamom - 1 teaspoon
- Saffron strands (optional)
- Almonds - 50 grams
- Cashews - 50 grams
- Pistachios - 50 grams, for garnishing
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start making the Mangaluru Ice Barfi, make sure to prepare all your ingredients. Start by coarsely chopping the almonds, cashews, and pistachios. If you choose to use saffron, soak a few strands in warm milk to release their color and flavor. Crushing the cardamom pods and discarding the husks will also help enhance the aroma of your barfi.
Step 2: Making the Barfi Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the full liter of milk. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the milk to a boil. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom. Once the milk has reduced by half, gradually add the sugar while stirring constantly. Add the crushed cardamom for flavor. Now, allow the mixture to thicken.
Step 3: Adding the Ghee and Nuts
Add the ghee gradually into the thickening mixture of milk and sugar. Ensure that each addition of ghee is well incorporated before adding more. This step gives the barfi its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, add the coarsely chopped almonds and cashews, stirring them evenly into the mixture. If using saffron, add it now.
Step 4: Setting and Garnishing
Once the mixture has reached a thick consistency and starts to leave the sides of the pan, turn off the heat. Transfer the mixture onto a greased tray or a plate lined with parchment paper. Flatten the mixture evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Garnish the surface with chopped pistachios for a touch of color and added texture.
The Cooking Process
The entire process, from boiling milk to setting the barfi, takes around an hour, but the results are well worth it. Using a cooking timer to keep track of the different stages, especially during the boiling and thickening phases, can help ensure perfect consistency.
Enjoying Mangaluru Ice Barfi
Mangaluru Ice Barfi can be enjoyed as a dessert or as a sweet treat during festive occasions. It pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee, allowing you to savor the contrast of warm and cold. This dessert is best served at room temperature, allowing its flavors to be fully appreciated as intended.