Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse..

A comfort food.... Mangoes really can make us feel better! Beyond being delicious and rich in vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants, mangoes contain an enzyme with stomach soothing properties similar to papain found in papayas. These comforting enzymes act as a digestive aid and can be held partially responsible for that feeling of contentment we experience during and after our daily mango ritual. Yes, it is quite natural to crave those mangoes!

Mango, both in its green and ripe form is a very good tenderizing agent due to these same enzymes, therefore ideal to include in any marinade. In India a sour mango powder containing ground up green mangos called Amchur, is used both as a seasoning and tenderizing aid.

We all know the importance of fiber in our diets. If we are eating mango-a-day, irregularity is not a problem for us. Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against degenerative diseases, especially with regards to the heart; may help prevent certain types of cancer, as well as lowering blood cholesterol levels. An average sized mango can contain up to 40% of your daily fiber requirement. For those among us who are physically active, whether working out or constantly on the go, mangos are also a great way to replenish that lost potassium. Deliciously rich in anti-oxidants, potassium and fiber - the mango is the perfect fruit! Truly 'the king of fruit'.

Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse (Amrakhand) is a quick, easy and fabulously light and airy dessert. It has that “WOW” look that will look like you have put in hours of work in the kitchen. The beautiful color of the Mango, intensified with the color of Saffron, the creaminess of the Sour Cream and cream cheese and the lightness of the plain yogurt, topped with the nutty Pistachios and Almonds! hmmmm...Yummy!...
The combination is “melt in your mouth goodness”.Call it a “Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse” or your version of “Kesar Mango Shrikhand” or "Amrakhand" – this one is a winner of hearts! for sure...It is unavoidable also for those who dont have sweet tooth...

SAFFRON FLAVOURED MANGO MOUSSE

Prep Time: 15 min
Chill Time: 1 hour
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:
Mango pulp – more than 1/2 cup (I used sweetened mango pulp)
Sugar – 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp or to taste (Reduce the amount of sugar as your mango pulp is already sweetened one)
Cream Cheese – 1 cup or 8 oz, at room temperature (optional)
Sour Cream – 2 cup (if using cream cheese then only 1 cup)
yogurt-2 tbsp
Saffron (Kesar) – pinch
Milk – 1 Tbsp
Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
Chopped Pistachios and almonds – 2 Tbsp, chopped

Procedure:
1. Warm up Milk and soak the Saffron in it.
2. Set aside till ready to use.
3. Take measured amount of mango pulp in food processor.
4. Add Sugar and give it a couple of quick pulses.
5. Roughly cube the Cream Cheese and add to the Food Processor.
6. To this add in Sour Cream, yogurt ,Saffron soaked in Milk and Powdered Cardamom.
7. Close Food Processor and mix well.
8. Half way through you can do the taste test and make sure the Sugar is right on for you.
9. Add 3/4th of the chopped Pistachios and almonds to the food processor, save balance of the nuts for topping.
10. Give the mousse one more quick pulse.
11. Transfer into a serving dish.
12. Garnish with the balance of the Pistachios and almonds and a few stands of Saffron (optional).You can also add cashewnuts and pecans or walnuts or any other dryfruits of your choice.
13. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
15. Serve Chilled.

Note:If food processor is not available you can mix it in grinder or blender else if nothing is available then also dont worry...you can simply mix all ingredients in perfectly measured quantity ...and mix it thoroughly with the help of spoon...It tastes amazingly fabulous!

This one goes straight to the event..Mango Mania 99 @ The Pumpkin Farm.

Mast event dear Pradnya...I loved it...Absolutely perfect for this season....