Almond Payasam

Soaking Time: 2 Hours
Preparation Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time: 30 mins
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients

• 3/4 cup almonds (badam)
• 5 cups (1 litre) milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp cardamom (elaichi) powder (optional)
• 1 tsp nutmeg (jaiphal) powder (optional)
• 1 tsp saffron (kesar) strands

Method

1. Soak the almonds in hot water for 2 hours. Drain, remove the skin and blend in a mixer to a fine paste. Keep aside.
2. Boil the milk in a heavy-bottomed vessel till it is reduced to ¾ of its quantity, while stirring continuously.
3. Add the almond paste, sugar, cardamom powder, nutmeg powder and saffron, mix well and simmer for 5 minutes, while stirring continuously. Keep aside.
4. When it cools completely, refrigerate at least for 2 hours.
5. Serve chilled.