If you haven’t enjoyed rose water and cardamom before, you’re in luck! The bold flavors of this Afghan Firnee are a novel delight for the western palette. Rose water and cardamom give this creamy custard an ethereal quality, while the ground nuts add a mystifying texture. Enjoy with tea and dried apricots. (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cup whole milk
1 cup sugar
4 Tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 capful rosewater
2-4 Tbsp pistachios, finely ground
12 whole pistachios for garnish

Method:

1. Heat milk in a small, heavy bottomed saucepan over low heat.

2. In a small cup mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons milk. Stir to create a smooth, gravy like consistency. This is called a cornstarch slurry.

3. Add cornstarch slurry, sugar, cardamom, and rose water to saucepan. Stirring constantly, heat mixture until it thickens and a few bubbles break through the surface.

4. Remove from heat and ladle into serving dishes. This recipe will fill 4 small ramekins.

5. Cover with  plastic wrap, pressing lightly onto the pudding. This prevents a skin from forming on the custard.

6. Refrigerate and cool completely. Sprinkle with ground pistachios, decorate with 2-3 whole pistachios, and serve.