Terkib-i Çeşmiri Şir is a historical Ottoman dessert, rich in flavors and steeped in tradition. This dessert, often translated as “Ottoman Milk Pudding,” is an exquisite blend of simple ingredients, creating a luxuriously creamy texture and delicate sweetness, perfect for a royal banquet or a cozy family dinner.
In a bowl, mix the rice flour and cornstarch. Add a few tablespoons of milk to form a smooth paste.
In a saucepan, gently heat the rest of the milk with the sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling.
Slowly add the rice flour and cornstarch paste to the heated milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Stir in the ground cardamom and rose water. Keep stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
Pour the mixture into serving bowls or a large dish. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios and dried rose petals for an authentic Ottoman touch.
Terkib-i Çeşmiri Şir is more than just a dessert; it's a journey through history, bringing the lavish feasts of the Ottoman era to your table. It’s perfect for those who appreciate desserts that are not overly sweet but rich in heritage and flavor.
Smooth Texture: Ensure a lump-free texture by gradually mixing the dry ingredients with milk before adding them to the hot milk.
Avoid Overheating: Gentle heating is key. Overheating can cause the milk to curdle or the pudding to become too thick.
Rose Water Quality: Use high-quality rose water for a more authentic and delicate flavor. The quality of rose water significantly influences the final taste.
Stirring Technique: Constant stirring is essential to prevent the pudding from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure an even texture.
Cooling Process: Allow the pudding to cool gradually. Rapid cooling might lead to a skin forming on the surface.
Serving Options: While traditional garnishes are pistachios and rose petals, you can also experiment with other nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Vegan Variation: For a vegan version, substitute whole milk with full-fat coconut milk. The coconut milk adds a unique flavor and keeps the creamy texture.
Storage: This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed cold.