Shahi Tukra
Pakistani Shahi Tukra is a rich and indulgent dessert that is popular across the Indian subcontinent. It is a perfect treat for Eid or any other special occasion. The dessert comprises of slices of bread soaked in sugary syrup and layered with thickened milk that is flavoured with saffron and cardamom. Finally, it is garnished with nuts and silver leaf.
Shahi Tukra’s history can be traced back to the Mughal empire. It was a firm favourite of the royal family who would feast on it during special celebrations. The dessert’s name ‘Shahi Tukra’ means ‘royal piece’ in Urdu and its regal appeal will undoubtedly leave your guests impressed.
It is said that the dish was created when a queen, during the Mughal era, enjoyed eating bread soaked in sweetened saffron milk. The dish was soon replicated for the palace chefs to prepare and it quickly became a favourite among the royal family. Its popularity meant that it slowly trickled down to the commoners and has become a popular dessert at special occasions ever since.
The recipe for Shahi Tukra varies slightly from region to region, but the basic ingredients remain the same. Traditionally, a type of bread called ‘Sheermal’ is used in the recipe. This sweet bread infused with saffron and cardamom adds another layer of flavour to the dish. However, in the modern-day, any bread can be used to prepare it.
The dish is unique in that it does not require a vast amount of ingredients or time to prepare. However, it does require attention to detail when preparing the syrup, flavoured milk and garnish, ensuring that each layer is perfect.
The syrup is made using sugar, water, and cardamom to create a thick, sweet syrup that will soak into the bread slices. The syrup is essential to the dish as it gives the bread its much-needed sweetness.
The flavoured milk layer is equally crucial to the dish. The milk is infused with saffron and cardamom and thickened by simmering for a long time. This milk mixture is then poured over the soaked bread, allowing it to absorb the flavour and richness of the milk.
Finally, the dish is garnished with toasted nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, and silver leaf for an added touch of grandeur.
The delicious blend of flavours and textures make Pakistani Shahi Tukra the perfect dessert to impress your guests. It is a simple but sophisticated dessert that showcases the richness and beauty of Pakistani cuisine.
Ingredients:
6-8 slices of white bread 2 cups of milk 1 cup of sugar ½ tsp cardamom powder 4 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) Chopped nuts (pistachios and almonds)
Instructions:
- Cut the bread into triangular shapes and set aside.
- In a pan, mix the milk and sugar, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cardamom powder and keep stirring for another 5 minutes.
- In another pan, heat the ghee and fry the bread slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain excess ghee on paper towels.
- In a separate bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of nuts with a little bit of the sweetened milk mixture.
- Take a serving dish and place the fried bread slices on it. Pour some sweetened milk mixture over the bread, making sure that each slice is well coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts mixture over the top of the bread slices.
- Keep the dish in the refrigerator for an hour or so, or until the bread absorbs the milk mixture.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Pakistani Shahi Tukra!