The Parsis are well known for their love of food, and more specifically, their love of desserts. It's not uncommon to see Parsis indulging in sweet treats after every meal, whether it's a slice of cake, a bowl of ice cream, or a plate of lagan nu custard.
Some say that it's the influence of the Persian culture on Parsi cuisine that has made sweets such an integral part of their diet. After all, Persians are known for their love of sweet, syrupy desserts like baklava and halva. Whatever the reason, there's no denying that the Parsi community takes their desserts seriously. And when it comes to the most iconic sweet treat in the Parsi repertoire, there's no contest, lagan nu custard takes the cake (pun intended).
For those who don't know, lagan nu custard is a rich, creamy custard made with milk, eggs, sugar, and a few choice spices. It's typically served at weddings and other special occasions, but Parsis will happily enjoy it any day of the week. It's not uncommon for Parsi families to have a batch of lagan nu custard in the fridge at all times, just in case they get a hankering for something sweet.
So why is this custard so beloved? Well, for starters, it's incredibly delicious. The rich, creamy texture is perfectly balanced by the subtle spiciness of nutmeg and cardamom, and the addition of slivered almonds and chopped charoli nuts add a satisfying crunch. But it's not just the taste that makes lagan nu custard so special - it's the nostalgia factor.
For many Parsis, lagan nu custard is more than just a dessert. It's a symbol of their cultural heritage and a reminder of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Eating a spoonful of lagan nu custard can transport you back to your grandmother's kitchen or your cousin's wedding reception. It's a taste of home and a connection to your roots.
Video Credit: Roshni, @PrettyParsiCook/YouTube
Ingredients:
- 2 L milk
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 eggs
- 2 tsp of vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp of freshly grated nutmeg
- ¼ tsp of ground cardamom
- 2 tbsp of slivered almonds
- 2 tbsp of chopped pistachios
- 2 tbsp roasted charoli nuts
- 1 tbsp soaked raisins
- 1 tablespoon of rose water
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 150°C Butter a large, deep baking dish and set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the milk simmer, stirring frequently, for about 30-40 minutes, until it has reduced to about half its original volume.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cardamom until the mixture is well combined and frothy.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine. Be sure to pour the milk slowly and in a steady stream, or else the eggs may curdle.
- Once the milk and egg mixture is well combined, add in the slivered almonds, chopped nuts, and rose water, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the custard is set and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the custard for at least 2 hours, or until it is thoroughly chilled and firm.
- To serve, cut the custard into squares or diamond shapes and garnish with additional slivered nuts and raisins.