By: Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
Kashmir, a land celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a remarkable culinary tradition. Among its most cherished desserts is the traditional Kashmiri malaikulfi. However, in recent years, the authenticity of this classic treat has been compromised by various custard-based imitations sold by street vendors and dhabawallas. It’s essential for kulfi enthusiasts to distinguish between these versions to truly appreciate the authentic flavors.
The Heart of Traditional Kashmiri Kulfi
Traditional Kashmiri malaikulfi is a labor of love, crafted from pure milk that is slowly simmered to achieve a thick, creamy consistency. Unlike the commercialized custard-based variants, authentic kulfi is dense, rich, and bursting with the flavors of cardamom, saffron, and nuts. The growing presence of custard-like kulfis in the market has led to confusion, with many people unable to experience the genuine article.
Ingredients: Traditional kulfi is made from milk, sugar, and natural flavorings like cardamom and saffron. Beware of products with artificial flavors, preservatives, or thickeners like custard powder.
Texture: Authentic kulfi has a dense, creamy texture that melts slowly. If the kulfi feels light and melts quickly, it is likely to be custard-based.
Flavor: Genuine kulfi boasts rich, natural flavors. Artificially flavored kulfis often have a synthetic taste that can be easily detected.
The Pursuit of Authenticity in Downtown and Lalchowk Srinagar
Amidst the sea of imitations, very few establishments are making strides in preserving and enhancing the authenticity of kulfi, mostly available in Srinagar’s downtown areas. Living in the civil line area, I usually visit ice cream shops, and today, I discovered a beautiful shop located in the heart of LalChowk: Salt & Spice. The owner, Sheikh Fayaz, greeted customers with a humble smile and warm hospitality.
During my visit, I found that Salt & Spice has creatively blended traditional Kashmiri malaikulfi with Italian gelato to create a dessert that is both true to its roots and innovative. This fusion results in a smoother, more scoopable texture while maintaining the rich, traditional flavors that define Kashmiri kulfi.
While innovation can often come at a high price, some places manage to keep their offerings affordable. At Salt & Spice, for instance, you can enjoy a scoop of this exquisite kulfi for just Rs 50. This accessibility ensures that everyone can savor the luxury of true Kashmiri flavors without breaking the bank.
Celebrating Kashmiri Culinary Excellence
The unparalleled taste of traditional Kashmiri kulfi is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether it’s the elaborate dishes of Wazwan or the simple pleasure of a well-made kulfi, Kashmiri food remains unmatched. For those who wish to experience this authenticity, it’s crucial to support establishments that honor traditional methods and ingredients.
Bringing Authentic Kulfi Home
For those looking to share this delightful experience with loved ones, these establishments offer the option to purchase kulfi in larger quantities. Salt & Spice provides bricks of their signature kulfi, allowing you to bring home a taste of Kashmir and enjoy it with family and friends.
Conclusion: A Call for Authenticity
As the popularity of kulfi continues to grow, it’s essential to celebrate and support the authentic versions of this beloved dessert. By being discerning about ingredients, texture, and flavor, we can ensure that the rich culinary traditions of Kashmir are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
After a good conversation with Sheikh Fayaz, I took home a packet of ice cream for my family, and we enjoyed it immensely. Despite modernization, there are very few people who want to promote heritage, culture, and authenticity in every aspect, and Sheikh Fayaz is one of them.
Do visit Salt & Spice to experience the true flavors of Kashmiri malaikulfi and support the preservation of this wonderful culinary tradition.
The writer is a Columnist, Motivational Speaker, and Associate Editor of Weekly ‘Education Quill’. akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com
