Indian Delicacies: What You Need To Know About Barfi

17 November 2022

Barfi is a traditional Indian sweet made from milk, sugar, and nuts. It is a popular dessert in India and is often served at weddings and other special occasions. You can make barfi in many different flavours, but the most common are pistachio and almond.

 

How Is Barfi Made?

 

There are many different ways to make barfi, but the most common method is to boil milk and sugar together until it forms a thick paste. This paste is then cooled and shaped into small squares or rectangles. Barfi is often flavoured with spices such as cardamom or saffron; nuts or dried fruits are sometimes added to the mixture.

 

Barfi is a very versatile sweet and can be made in various flavours. The most common flavours are pistachio, almond, and cashew, but You can also make barfi with other ingredients such as chocolate, coffee, or even rose water.

 

History of Barfi

 

The delicious sweet known as barfi has a long and rich history in India. This sweetmeat is believed to have originated in the state of Rajasthan, and it has been enjoyed by Indians for centuries.

 

The word "barfi" is derived from the Persian word "barf," which means snow. This is fitting, as barfi is often made with milk and condensed milk, which gives it a white appearance.

 

The earliest mention of barfi can be found in the poetry of 14th-century poet Amir Khusro. He described a sweet made from milk and almonds that was popular in the royal courts of India.

 

Barfi was traditionally made by boiling milk and sugar until it thickened, then adding flavourings like almonds, pistachios, or cardamom. Today, there are many different barfi recipes, and they can be made with various ingredients.

 

Barfi is often served at weddings and other special occasions, and it is a popular gift to give during the Hindu festival of Diwali.

 

What Are the Most Common Types of Barfi?

 

There are many different types of barfi, each with its own unique flavour and texture. The most common types of barfi include:

 

1. Mawa Barfi: Mawa barfi is made with milk solids and sugar and has a rich, creamy flavour. It is often garnished with pistachios or almonds.

 

2. Besan Barfi: Besan barfi is made with gram flour, sugar, and ghee. It has a dense, fudgy texture and a nutty flavour.

 

3. Khoya Barfi: Khoya barfi is made with milk solids and sugar. It is dense and creamy, with a rich flavour.

 

4. Malai Barfi: Malai barfi is made with cream and sugar. It is rich and creamy, with a mild flavour.

 

5. Kaju Barfi: Kaju barfi is made with cashew nuts and sugar. It is rich and creamy, with a nutty flavour.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Barfi is a delicious Indian dessert that can be made in various ways. It is often made with milk, sugar, and nuts and can be served either hot or cold. Barfi is a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions and can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. If you're looking for a unique and tasty dessert, give barfi a try!


Get the
best Indian food in London at Tower Tandoori. We are one of London's oldest Indian restaurants serving up authentic delicacies. From delicious kulfi and exquisite barfi to cram-them-in-your-mouth Gulab Jamun paired with a milky spicy chai – we have something for everyone. Order online now!

Tandoori Sharing
30 August 2026
Plan group dining at a tandoori Indian restaurant with veg, vegan, halal and gluten free choices plus mild to hot spice options for everyone.
Modern Indian Dining
23 August 2026
Discover how a modern Indian restaurant in London blends tradition with innovation, from charcoal tandoor classics to bold contemporary dishes near Tower Bridge.
Indian Dining
16 August 2026
Compare shared platters, thalis and set menus to suit portions, spice and dietary needs at an Indian restaurant in Tower Bridge for great value
Indian Eats
9 August 2026
Discover deals, set menus and BYOB tips for an affordable Indian restaurant in London, with borough by borough picks and bill splitting advice.
Tandoori
2 August 2026
Plan a relaxed evening at an Indian restaurant in Tower Bridge with a course by course order, sharing ideas, pairings and pacing tips for two
Indian Restaurant
26 July 2026
Discover a family-run spot by Tower Bridge offering charcoal tandoor classics and all-day dining at an Indian restaurant in London near the riverbank
Tandoori
19 July 2026
Discover what charcoal tandoori really changes in flavour, texture and cook time at an Indian restaurant near Tower Bridge, with side by side dish comparisons.
Charcoal Tandoori
12 July 2026
Follow a chef’s Friday-night tandoori timeline near Tower Bridge: heat control, skewer sequence, and service rhythm inside a busy Indian kitchen.
Curry Night
5 July 2026
Upgrade your Tower Bridge curry night with Tower Tandoori’s charcoal tandoor flavours, hot naan, smoky grills, and warm vibes. Book your table today!
Curry Heritage
28 June 2026
Follow a mapped curry heritage walk to discover the best Tower Bridge Indian restaurant roots, migration stories, historic curry houses and dishes.