Mango Kulfi with Coconut Milk
Add saffron strands to warm milk (to bloom saffron) and let steep for 8–10 minutes until the milk turns a deep golden colour. This unlocks the full aroma and colour of the saffron.
In a blender, combine ripe mango pulp (fresh Alphonso or Kesar preferred), full-fat coconut milk, condensed milk (sweetened), heavy cream or malai, cardamom powder, and the bloomed saffron milk. Blend for 45 seconds until completely smooth, thick, and creamy. Taste — adjust sweetness if needed. The mixture should taste slightly sweeter than you'd want to eat, as freezing dulls sweetness.
Stir in pistachios, finely chopped and 2 desiccated coconut, toasted (optional) (if using) into the blended mixture by hand. Reserve the rest for topping. This gives lovely little bites of crunch in every mouthful.
Pour the kulfi mixture into kulfi moulds, small steel cups, or matka pots, filling about ¾ full to allow for slight expansion. Tap gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. Seal with lids or cover tightly with foil. Insert popsicle sticks through the foil.
Place moulds upright in the freezer. Freeze for a minimum of 6–8 hours, preferably overnight, until completely firm all the way through.
To unmould, run the mould under warm water for 15–20 seconds, rotating it. Place a plate over the opening, flip, and the kulfi should slide out in one clean piece. Alternatively, squeeze the sides of the mould gently.
Serve immediately topped with mango pieces, diced small (for topping), remaining pistachios, finely chopped, and a sprinkle of desiccated coconut, toasted (optional). For a traditional touch, serve on a bed of thin vermicelli (falooda) with a drizzle of rose syrup.