Firni is a delicious Afghan custard made with only a few simple ingredients. We love adding vanilla and freshly ground cardamom for more flavor, and topping with nuts for an added crunch. We made ours with Ariana Sweets all natural, gluten free, non gmo cornstarch. Get yours at a local international retailer! But you can of course, use any type of cornstarch.
Firni, a delectable Afghan dessert, is a creamy and comforting rice pudding. This simple yet elegant dish is made with just a few ingredients: milk, sugar, rice flour, and cardamom. The result is a smooth, velvety pudding that is both rich and refreshing. Often served chilled and topped with nuts, Firni is the perfect ending to any meal.
If you want to make the best Firni, you’ve come to the right place!
Firni is a delicate and creamy rice pudding, is a beloved dessert in Afghan cuisine. Made with a few simple ingredients like milk, sugar, rice flour, and cardamom, this sweet treat offers a comforting and indulgent experience. The smooth texture and subtle flavors of Firni make it a perfect ending to any meal. To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding aromatic spices like saffron or rose water.
Tips On Making Firni The Best Way
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for full-fat milk for a richer flavor and texture. Freshly ground cardamom adds a unique aromatic note.
Cook Slowly and Stir Constantly: To prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture, cook the Firni over low heat, stirring continuously.
Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the Firni for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to set properly. This will also enhance the flavors.
Experiment with Flavors: While traditional Firni is flavored with cardamom, you can experiment with other flavors like saffron, rose water, or pistachio.
Serve Chilled and Garnished: Serve the chilled Firni garnished with chopped pistachios, almonds, or dried fruits for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold Whole Milk
- 1⁄3 cup Cornstarch
- 3⁄4 cup Sugar
- 1⁄2 tsp freshly Ground Cardamom
- 1-2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Pistachios
- Slivered Almonds
Directions
1. Start by measuring 2 cups whole milk. Pour one and half cups into a sauce pan.
2. Then the last half cup, mix with 1/3 cup corn starch.
3. Then add that into the sauce pan with the rest of the milk.
4. Turn on Medium to High heat.
5. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid the milk sticking.
6. Then add sugar, ground cardomom, and the vanilla.
7. Then stir until it starts bubbling and thickens up like a cream of wheat.
8. Let it cool down in room temperature for 30 min then put it into the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
9. Garnish with some ground up pistachios and sliced almonds.
10. Enjoy!
Storage Recommendations
Use Airtight Containers
We highly recommend using airtight containers such as Skroam’s 10 Pack Glass Containers because glass is best!
Refrigeration
Let the Firni cool before you store them into the refrigerator. You can typically store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure you use an airtight container to avoid earlier expiration.
Freezing
If, for whatever reason, you cannot finish it in 3 days, you may freeze the Firni as well. This will make it last up to 2 months but we recommend consuming it sooner for best results.
When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
While whole milk is traditionally used for Firni, you can experiment with other types of milk like 2% milk or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
To avoid lumps, gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the heated milk, stirring continuously. Also, ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved before adding it to the milk.
Yes, you can add other flavors to your Firni. Some popular options include saffron, rose water, or even chocolate chips. You can also experiment with different types of nuts and dried fruits.
Properly stored Firni can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. We highly recommend using airtight containers such as Skroam’s 10 Pack Glass Containers because glass is best!
Yes, you can freeze Firni for later. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
If your Firni is too runny, cook it for a longer time, stirring constantly. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk and continue to stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Want More Great Recipes like this? Here are some of our Go-To Recipes!
Kabuli Palaw, Afghan Brown Rice
Love Our Firni? Give Us Feedback!
If you make our Firni, please leave a comment and/or rate the recipe! We’d love to hear your feedback. Also, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram! We love seeing our family’s favorite recipes being enjoyed by others!
Halfghan Kitchen Instagram
Firni – An Afghan Custard
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cold Whole Milk
- 1/3 cup Cornstarch
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cardomom
- 1 – 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Pistachios optional
- Slivered Almonds optional
Instructions
- Start by measuring 2 cups whole milk.
- Pour one and half cups into a sauce pan.
- Then the last half cup, mix with 1/3 cup corn starch.
- Then add that into the sauce pan with the rest of the milk.
- Turn on Medium to High heat.
- Make sure to stir constantly to avoid the milk sticking.
- Then add sugar, ground cardomom, and the vanilla.
- Then stir until it starts bubbling and thickens up like a cream of wheat.
- Let it cool down in room temperature for 30 min then put it into the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Garnish with some ground up pistachios and sliced almonds.
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