Apple Rabdi

A creamy saffron milk pudding with caramelized apple and roasted apple chips
Yield: Serves 4–6 | Total time: 1 hour + 4–6 hours chilling

This luscious twist on traditional rabdi features caramelized grated apples slowly simmered in full-fat milk with saffron and mava. Chilled and topped with apple chips and a dusting of coffee, it's a delightful balance of fruit, spice, and richness.

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Ingredients

Rabdi Base

• 1 litre full-fat cream milk

• 50 g grated mava (khoya)

• ½ tsp saffron (soaked in 1 tbsp lukewarm water)

• ½ cup sugar (divided)

• 2 cups peeled, grated apple

• 2 tsp ghee

For GarNICHE

• Roasted apple chips

• Coffee powder for dusting

Optional: Apple Chips (if making at home)

• Thinly sliced apples (use a potato slicer)

• Oven set to 240°C

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Method

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Chips (Optional)

1. Slice apples thinly using a potato slicer.

2. Lay them in a single layer on a baking tray.

3. Bake at 240°C until golden and crispy. Let them cool and store in an airtight container.

Step 2: Caramelize the Apples

4. Peel and grate apples, then soak them in chilled water to prevent browning.

5. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 2 tsp ghee.

6. Add 2 tsp sugar and stir gently until it caramelizes to a golden hue.

7. Drain the grated apple and add it to the pan. Stir well to coat in the caramel.

Step 3: Simmer the Milk

8. Slowly pour in the milk and bring to a boil.

9. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and stir frequently.

10. Cook until the milk reduces by half and thickens slightly. Stir often to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finish the Rabdi

11. Add the soaked saffron, grated mava, and the remaining sugar.

12. Stir until the mava dissolves and the rabdi is a smooth, almond-toned consistency.

13. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

14. Pour the warm rabdi into coffee cups or dessert bowls.

15. Refrigerate for 4–6 hours, or until completely chilled.

16. Before serving, dust with a touch of coffee powder and garnish with roasted apple chips.

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Chef’s Notes

• For extra richness, replace half the milk with evaporated milk.

• Use slightly tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.

• Apple chips can also be air-fried or sun-dried if an oven isn't available.

• A light dusting of cinnamon powder can be added for warmth and aroma.