LAB E SHIREEN
Lab-e-Shireen is a famous dessert in Karachi that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Its name translates to "sweet nectar" in Persian, reflecting its rich, sweet flavors and delightful presentation. This multi-layered treat features bright, homemade jellies in green, yellow, and red, set alongside a rich and creamy vanilla custard. The addition of colorful vermicelli, chopped almonds, and pistachios adds a delightful crunch, while a medley of fruit cocktail and sweet chum chum brings a refreshing burst of flavor. Perfect for a sweet ending to any meal, The colorful presentation adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect centerpiece for dessert tables.
For the Jellies:
For the Custard:
For Assembling:
Instructions
Prepare the Jellies:
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- Make the jellies according to the instructions on the packets. This typically involves dissolving the jelly powder in boiling water and then adding cold water as specified.
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- Pour each prepared jelly into separate dishes or containers. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set, which usually takes about 2-4 hours.
Prepare the Vermicelli:
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- In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the colored vermicelli and cook according to the package (usually around 5-7 minutes) instructions until tender.
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- Once cooked, drain the vermicelli in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Custard:
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- In a medium bowl, combine cold milk with custard powder and whisk until smooth and lump-free.
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- In a large pot, pour in milk and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
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- Once boiling, add sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
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- Gradually pour the custard mixture into the boiling milk while continuously stirring. Keep stirring until the custard thickens and becomes smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
Assemble the Dessert:
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- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled custard. Stir in the boiled colored vermicelli, chopped almonds, and chopped pistachios. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
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- Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, gently fold in the double cream until well incorporated.
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- Once the jellies are fully set, cut them into small cubes. Drain the canned fruit cocktail to remove excess syrup.
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- Add the cubed jellies, fruit cocktail, and bite-sized pieces of chum chum to the custard mixture. Gently fold everything together until evenly distributed.
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- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual cups. Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours, or until fully chilled.
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- Serve Lab-e-Shireen cold, garnished with extra chopped nuts or a drizzle of cream if desired. Enjoy!
Note
Since Lab-e-Shireen requires considerable setting and chilling time, it's best to prepare it a day in advance if you have the opportunity. This allows the flavors to develop and ensures that the dessert is perfectly chilled when served.
Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking to streamline the process and avoid any delays.
Serve Lab-e-Shireen in clear glass bowls or cups to showcase its beautiful layers. Garnishing with additional nuts or a sprig of mint can elevate its visual appeal even further.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the custard.
Feel free to customize the fruit cocktail with fresh fruits if desired.
