How to Make Indian Sweets with Milk and Nuts

Indian sweets, known as 'mithai,' are cherished for their rich flavors and delightful textures. Milk and nuts are integral ingredients in many traditional Indian desserts. With a few simple steps, you can create mouthwatering sweets at home that are perfect for any celebration. Below are some popular recipes to help you make delicious Indian sweets with milk and nuts.

1. Barfi (Milk Fudge)

Ingredients:
- 2 cups full cream milk - 1 cup sugar - 1/2 cup grated coconut (optional) - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews) - 1/4 tsp cardamom powder - A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Instructions:
1. Boil the milk in a heavy-bottomed pan, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning. 2. Once the milk starts to reduce, add the sugar and mix well. 3. Stir in the grated coconut (if using) and continue cooking until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. 4. Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands, followed by the chopped nuts. Mix well. 5. Grease a plate with ghee and spread the mixture evenly. Allow it to cool for a few hours. 6. Once set, cut the barfi into square or diamond shapes and serve.

2. Kheer (Rice Pudding)

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup basmati rice - 4 cups full cream milk - 1/2 cup sugar - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) - 1/2 tsp cardamom powder - A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice. 2. In a heavy saucepan, bring the milk to a boil. 3. Add the rinsed rice and reduce the heat to low. Cook the rice in the milk, stirring regularly, until the rice is cooked and the milk thickens (about 20-25 minutes). 4. Once the kheer reaches a creamy consistency, add the sugar, nuts, cardamom powder, and saffron if using. 5. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring gently. Serve warm or chilled.

3. Gulab Jamun (Deep-fried Milk Balls in Syrup)

Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour - 1/4 tsp baking soda - 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed) - Ghee or oil for deep frying - 1 cup sugar - 1 cup water - 1/2 tsp cardamom powder - A handful of chopped nuts for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, flour, and baking soda. Gradually add milk to form a soft dough. 2. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a marble). 3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan for deep frying. Fry the balls on low heat until they are golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. 4. In another saucepan, combine sugar and water to make a syrup. Boil until the sugar dissolves. Add cardamom powder for flavor. 5. Add the fried balls to the warm syrup and allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with chopped nuts before serving.

4. Pista Burfi (Pistachio Fudge)

Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder - 1/2 cup milk - 1/2 cup sugar - 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios - 1/4 tsp cardamom powder - A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat milk and add sugar, stirring until melted. 2. Gradually mix in milk powder to form a soft dough. 3. Add the chopped pistachios, cardamom powder, and saffron. Mix well. 4. Grease a plate and spread the mixture, leveling it out evenly. 5.