Matcha Phirni is a vibrant twist on the traditional Indian rice pudding, infused with the delicate, earthy aroma of green tea. Traditionally prepared during festive seasons, like Holi, phirni is celebrated for its creamy texture and fragrant cardamom flavour. The addition of matcha not only gives it a fresh, green hue but also adds antioxidants, making this dessert a healthier indulgence. Served chilled, it’s a perfect treat to balance the colours and energy of the festival. Topped with crunchy nuts and a hint of rose or saffron, each bite is smooth, aromatic, and festive-ready.
Drain the soaked Basmati rice and grind it coarsely in a blender until it reaches a slightly grainy texture. This ensures that the rice cooks quickly and gives the phirni its traditional creamy yet slightly textured consistency. Keep the grains coarse; do not turn them into a smooth paste.
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Boil the milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the full-fat milk and bring it to a gentle boil over medium flame. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from sticking or burning at the base. A slow boil is key to maintaining a creamy texture and avoiding curdling.
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Cook the rice
Add the coarsely ground rice to the boiling milk. Reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir frequently so the milk thickens evenly and the rice softens completely. This step creates the rich, velvety base that makes phirni special.
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Add flavouring
Once the rice is tender, mix in sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands if using. Stir thoroughly so that the sugar melts and blends uniformly with the milk. This step infuses the phirni with its signature sweetness and aromatic spice.
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Incorporate matcha
In a small bowl, dissolve the matcha powder with 1–2 tablespoons of warm milk to form a smooth paste. Add this paste to the phirni and stir gently to avoid clumps. The matcha gives a beautiful green colour and a delicate, earthy flavour without overpowering the dessert.
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Finish and chill
Remove the phirni from the heat, and if using, add rose water. Let it cool to room temperature before pouring it into serving bowls. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours to let the flavours meld and the phirni set perfectly.
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Garnish and serve
Before serving, sprinkle slivered almonds and pistachios on top. The nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy phirni. Serve chilled for the ultimate festive experience.