Khubani ka Meetha is a popular dessert made with khubani or apricots, from Hyderabad cuisine.
Khubani ka meetha has a jam like creamy texture and usually served with ice cream or custard.
Khubani ka Meetha (or Qubani ka Meetha) is a royal dessert that has graced the tables of the Nizams for centuries. In Urdu, “Khubani” means apricot, and “Meetha” refers to a sweet dish or dessert. It is believed to have been introduced by Central Asian travelers to the Deccan region. So it’s become part of Hyderabadi cuisine.
The dessert is traditionally requiring only two primary ingredients, dried apricots or khubani and sugar. The process begins by soaking dried apricots overnight or until they are plump and tender. Separating the apricot kernels, present in the fruit.
Hard shells have to be cracked open to reveal a almond-like nuts. We have to add them too to the dish in the last. This provides a delightful crunch that offsets the velvety texture of the dessert. Slow-cook them in their own soaking liquid until they break down into a thick jam-like texture.
In almost every Hyderabadi celebrations, particularly weddings and family gatherings it is a must. It is almost always served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with less sweetened custard. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, Khubani ka Meetha remains a timeless symbol of hospitality and culinary elegance.
Beyond its delightful taste, Khubani is also considered for its health benefits. Apricots are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dessert a comparatively wholesome choice. Its light consistency makes it easy to digest, which is why it is commonly served after heavy meals.
Key ingredients in Khubani ka Meetha:
- Khubani or Apricots: Always use dried apricots. They are available in any dry fruit shop and even online too.
- Sugar: Use only 3/4th portion of the fruit, so that the dessert won’t turn out to be too sweet.
More than just a dessert, it reflects the cultural richness and culinary heritage of Hyderabad. Very easy to prepare and requiring minimal ingredients, this timeless dessert continues to be cherished by generations and remains a favorite for both everyday enjoyment and grand occasions.
Khubani ka Meetha | Apricot Delight | Khubani ka Meetha Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 grms Khubani or Apricots
- 150 grms Sugar
Instructions
- Soak khubani in water for about 8 to 10 hours.
- Once they soaked well they will turn into pulpy and tender.
- Cut open the fruit to separate the shell present in it.
- Like wise separate the shell from all the apricots/khubani.
- Gently break the shell to remove the almond-like seed.
- Keep them aside.
- They can be cooked well and cut open too. But it will take longer time.
- In a thick bottom pan, add the soaked khubani with the water.
- Add 1/2 cup water.
- Allow them to cook till they soft and mushy.
- Cook them in low to medium flame.
- Once it is cooked well and turns mushy, add sugar and let it melts.
- Add the seeds also and mix it well.
- Allow khubani ka meetha to cook till it attain jam-like texture.
- Serve warm or chill with custard, vanilla ice cream or as it is also.