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Sheer Yakh Afghan ice cream recipe

Sheer Yakh: Traditional Afghan Ice Cream

2 from 2 votes
A creamy Afghan ice cream made with milk, heavy cream, cardamom, saffron, and crunchy pistachios. This easy homemade Sheer Yakh recipe is rich, fragrant, and perfect for a traditional dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Afghan
Calories: 465

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
  • 2 tablespoons sliced or chopped almonds
  • A small amount of saffron optional
  • 1 tablespoon rose water optional
  • Dried rose petals for decoration optional

Method
 

  1. In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk well until smooth.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring often, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  3. Add the cardamom, vanilla, saffron, and rose water. Stir well and remove from the heat.
  4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until completely chilled.
  5. Pour the chilled mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for about 1 hour, then stir well to break up ice crystals.
  6. Repeat the stirring process every 30-60 minutes for a few hours until the Sheer Yakh becomes thick and creamy.
  7. Fold in the chopped pistachios and almonds before the final freezing stage.
  8. Freeze until firm, then let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with pistachios, almonds, or dried rose petals and serve chilled.