Indian

Jain Piyush (Saffron & Nut Cooler)

Jain Piyush blends shrikhand, hung curd, milk, saffron, nutmeg, and nuts into a thick Maharashtrian saffron cooler.

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Jain Piyush (Saffron & Nut Cooler)

10 mintotal

Prep 10 min

Serves
2
Difficulty
Easy
Spice
Mild

Ingredients

Quantities are for 2 servings.

Includes 15 minutes for saffron to steep in warm milk before blending the chilled Piyush.

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl or a traditional wooden churner (mathani), add the Shrikhand and thick curd.

  2. Whisk them together until they are completely unified and smooth. Do not use an electric blender on high speed, as it will make the yogurt too watery.

  3. Add the chilled milk, powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and nutmeg powder.

  4. Pour in the saffron-infused milk.

  5. Whisk gently for 2-3 minutes until the liquid is frothy, completely smooth, and slightly thinner than Shrikhand but thicker than normal Lassi.

    2–3 min

  6. Place the Piyush in the refrigerator for at least an hour. It is best enjoyed ice cold.

  7. Pour into glasses, garnish with slivered almonds, pistachios, and an extra strand of saffron.

  8. Serve chilled.

How to tell it's done

Extremely thick, luxurious, creamy, and velvety sweet drink with warming notes of nutmeg and cardamom.

Getting it right

Tip

Nutmeg (Jaiphal) is the distinguishing ingredient that separates Piyush from a regular sweet Lassi. Do not skip it.

What to serve it with

A highly festive drink often served during Gudi Padwa or Mahavir Jayanti, perfect alongside spicy Misal or Puri Sabzi.