It isn’t easy to break away from tradition, and sheer khurma had been a steadfast tradition for so many families across Pakistan. However, there comes a time where one can feel the need to start a new tradition or at the very least, mix things up a bit. We’ve put together a list of desserts that you can make instead of (or as well as) your traditional bowl of sheer.
Rest assured, we’re not going completely rogue, and our list does include some tried and true dishes that most Pakistani households love.
Ras Malai
These soft pillows of sheer goodness floating in a river of sweet milk are ultimately satisfying. Garnish with pistachios and almonds for that pop of color against the white.
Shahi Tukray
I don’t know about you, but this saffron infused dish makes it to the top of ‘best desi desserts EVER created’. Deep fried slices of bread, soaked in cardamom and saffron infused milk is how all bread puddings everywhere should be made. You can serve this warm or cold- your preference. Garnish with chaandi ka waraq and nuts.
Persian Cake
The best of both worlds- a one layer modern cake which tastes like you’ve taken a trip to the medieval Middle East.
Find the video and recipe here.
Khobani ka Meetha
Perhaps the simplest meetha to put together. Boil dried apricots and remove the pulp from the seed. Then cook with sugar in a pan until it reaches your desired consistency. Layer the khobani mixture with custard and ta da! That’s pretty much it, unless you want to turn it up a notch and add a layer of pound cake. Yum.
Also Read: The Most Mouth Watering Dishes For Your Eid Table
Fruit Trifle
Mango Cheesecake
Because mangoes are finally in season and there’s no excuse not to make mango cheesecake.
Chocolate Mousse
If you do decide to make this dessert, then use high quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa). If you’re not going to splurge/ indulge a little on Eid, then when?
Key Lime Pie
This will disappear faster than anyone can say ‘where’s the sheer khurma?’. A favorite, and well-loved dessert that has the right balance of tangy and sweet. Whip together cream cheese, ground sugar, lemon juice, condensed milk and a touch of gelatin for setting purposes. Pour this over a biscuit base and let it chill in the fridge for 6 hours or so before serving.
Kunafeh
A Middle Eastern dessert that has taken Pakistan by storm. This is the closest alternative to sheer khurma considering it uses pastry that is similar to vermicelli (sawaiyyan). The delicate strands of pastry are layered with cheese or cream and baked. It is then soaked with a sugar syrup and covered with chopped pistachios.
Mixed Fruit Parfaits
Find the full recipes and videos for parfaits. These are not only delicious but the fact that you can make these in individual servings makes it the perfect treat for guests.