Traditionally made in earthen pots, the milk based frozen dessert Matka Kulfi is immensely popular in Asian countries, especially during warm summer months.
Text And Photo By Sonia Mangla
This recipe has its similarities to ice cream but the end product is denser and creamier. The method of preparation is a little different than ice cream as Kulfi is not whipped, which results in a solid, dense frozen dessert. Due to its density, Kulfi takes a longer time to melt than a regular ice-cream. The most popular flavors for Kulfi are pistachio and nuts based, but for this version we will add a twist in form of some white chocolate, which makes our Kulfi a blend of very distinct yet complimenting flavors.
White Chocolate Matka Kulfi
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A dense and creamy frozen dessert, Matka Kulfi is enhanced with white chocolate and nuts, offering a unique twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (960 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 6 cardamom pods
- 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup (30 g) unsalted/shelled pistachios, chopped
Instructions
- Crush the cardamom pods in a mortar to release their flavor.
- In a large pan, combine the whole milk and crushed cardamom pods. Heat the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer vigorously, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to one-third of its original volume. This should take about 30-40 minutes.
- Strain the reduced milk to remove the cardamom pods.
- Return the strained milk to the pan and add the heavy cream, sugar, and white chocolate chips. Stir continuously over low heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Stir in the chopped almonds and pistachios.
- Pour the mixture into molds or small earthen pots (matkis) and freeze for at least 6 hours or until completely set.
- To serve, remove the kulfi from the molds by dipping them briefly in warm water and then gently pulling them out. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a more traditional presentation, serve the kulfi in small earthen pots called matkis.
- You can substitute the white chocolate with dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Store any leftover kulfi in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Ensure the mixture is well-reduced to achieve the desired creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 45
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is kulfi different from regular ice cream?
Unlike ice cream, kulfi is not whipped, so it freezes into a solid, dense, and extra-creamy dessert rather than a light, airy one. Because of its density it also melts more slowly than regular ice cream. 
Why does the milk need to simmer for 30-40 minutes?
Reducing 4 cups of whole milk down to one-third of its original volume concentrates the milk solids and natural sugars, which is what gives kulfi its signature rich, caramelized flavor and dense texture. Rushing this step will leave the kulfi too thin and icy.
Can I swap the white chocolate for dark chocolate?
Yes — the recipe notes that substituting the white chocolate chips with dark chocolate will give a different, bolder flavor profile while the rest of the method stays the same.
How long can I keep kulfi in the freezer?
Leftover kulfi can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. The recipe requires a minimum freeze time of 6 hours before serving.
Want to know where to purchase these matkas in United States ?
Hi
Your recipe for matka kulfi is very nice, I would like to know where can buy matki I am staying in south africa do you know in india somebody they can do mass production? And let me know how much its cost? When you freeze them they don’t cracks?
Regards.
Ilias Sheikh
Where the small matkis purchased from?
where were the small matkis purchased from?