Sheer yakh

01 / ABOUT THE DISH

About the dish

Sheer yakh, meaning frozen milk or cold milk in Dari, is a traditional dessert that uses the same ingredients as the Indian kulfi ice cream but is prepared differently. The ice cream ingredients such as milk, sugar, and flavorings are all added to a metal container, which is then placed inside another metal container filled with ice and salt. The person who makes the ice cream continuously rotates the vessel holding the ingredients manually within the stationary ice-filled container and occasionally stirs the creamy mixture until it becomes frozen. Typical flavorings include cardamom, rose water, and salep (wild orchid powder). A favorite summertime street food item, sheer yakh is usually served in small bowls and topped with chopped pistachios, almonds, and thick cream.