STEP-BY-STEP SHRIKHAND RECIPE FOR THIS GANESH CHATURTHI

When we think of Indian festivals, we often picture vibrant colors, devotional music, and tables overflowing with sweets. While Modak may be the crown jewel of Ganesh Chaturthi, there’s another dessert that quietly wins hearts across Maharashtra and Gujarat—Shrikhand. Creamy, aromatic, and soul-soothing, Shrikhand is more than just sweetened yogurt. It’s a celebration of simplicity, tradition, and indulgence.

In this post, we’ll explore the origins of it , its cultural significance, and how to make it from scratch using hung curd. Whether you’re cooking in a hostel kitchen or preparing prasad for Bappa, this recipe is your ticket to festive bliss.

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🕉️ What Is Shrikhand?

It is a chilled dessert made by straining curd (yogurt) to remove whey, then blending it with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and nuts. The result is a thick, mousse-like treat that’s both refreshing and rich. Traditionally served with puris, it is a staple in Maharashtrian and Gujarati thalis during festivals like Gudi Padwa, Janmashtami, and Ganesh Chaturthi.

It’s also known by its Sanskrit name “Shikarni”, and variations exist across India—from mango shrikhand (amrakhand) to dry fruit shrikhand and even savory versions with salt and cumin.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ No cooking required—just mix, chill, and serve
• ✅ Satvik and prasad-friendly—no grains, no eggs, no artificial flavors
• ✅ Hostel-friendly—can be made with Greek yogurt or hung curd
• ✅ Customizable—add fruits, nuts, or even rosewater for a twist

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🛒 Ingredients

For Hung Curd:

• 1 kg full-fat curd (preferably homemade or store-bought fresh curd)
• Muslin cloth or clean cotton towel

For Flavoring:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 2 tbsp warm milk
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)

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🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Hung Curd (Chakka)

• Add Milk in a Pan

• Add milk powder in it

• Add more milk

• Stir it and Boil

• After cool down , transfer into a bowl and add Curd

• REST IT FOR 8 HOURS

• REFRIGERATE FOR 3 HOURS

• NOW take a sieve

• Place a muslin cloth over the strainer

• Put thick curd in the cloth

• Now tie the cloth

Rest for 2 hours and HUNG CURD is ready

NOW MIX IT WELL AND ADD POWDERED SUGAR IN IT

💡 Shortcut: Use Greek yogurt if you’re short on time. It’s already strained and ready to use.

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Step 2: Infuse Saffron

• Soak saffron strands in warm milk for 10–15 minutes. This releases color and aroma.

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Step 3: Mix the Shrikhand.

1. Add cardamom powder

2. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated.

3. Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours.

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Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Top with chopped PISTACHIO

• Serve chilled, ideally with hot puris or as a standalone dessert.

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🧘‍♀️ Satvik & Hostel-Friendly Tips

• No fridge? Use a cool corner and a weighted bowl to strain curd.
• No saffron? Use a pinch of turmeric for color.
• No powdered sugar? Grind regular sugar in a mixer.
• Want it vegan? Use plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey/sugar.

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🧠 Cultural Significance

Shrikhand isn’t just a dessert—it’s a symbol of balance. Yogurt cools the body, saffron warms the soul, and cardamom aids digestion. In many households, shrikhand is offered to deities as prasad, especially during summer festivals. Its simplicity makes it accessible, while its richness makes it celebratory.

In Gujarat, shrikhand is often paired with puri and batata shaak (potato curry) for a complete festive meal. In Maharashtra, it’s served in weddings and temple feasts. And now, it’s finding its way into modern menus—from shrikhand parfaits to shrikhand cheesecakes.

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💡 Variations to Try

• Amrakhand: Add mango pulp for a fruity twist
• Dry Fruit Shrikhand: Blend in dates, figs, and raisins
• Rose Shrikhand: Add rose syrup and dried petals
• Chocolate Shrikhand: Mix in cocoa powder and choco chips for fusion fun

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📝 Closing Thoughts

Shrikhand is proof that the simplest ingredients—curd, sugar, and spice—can create magic. Whether you’re celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, hosting a festive dinner, or just craving something sweet and satvic, this recipe delivers comfort and joy in every spoonful.

NOT JUST SHRIKHAND, MODAK,PURAN POLI, AND MANY MORE SWEETS ARE PART OF GANESH CHATURTHI IN EACH STATE DIFFERENTLY.

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