Badaam ki Kheer

Use equal weight; provides the standard rich dairy fat and body expected in creamy Indian bases.

Dilute 3 parts cream with 1 part water to match the weight; yields a richer, glossier gravy that resists curdling.

Whisk thoroughly and use equal weight; adds extra body and a mild pleasant acidity, best added off the heat.

Use the same weight; cover with hot water for 5 minutes, then slip off the skins.

Use the same weight; they are already peeled and split, so use whole or chop as needed.

Use the same weight; soak in warm water before grinding. They are softer and richer, so the dish will be creamier.

Use equal weight; grate or shave finely so it dissolves rapidly, giving a warm, caramel-like sweetness and slightly darker sauce.

Grind freshly extracted inner black seeds finely; use equal weight (1:1). Greatly superior aroma with potent eucalyptus and citrus notes.

Lightly crack whole pods and simmer them in the gravy; use 150% of the weight of ground cardamom. Fish out the pods before serving.

Use 50% of the weight. Delivers warm, sweet aroma, but lacks cardamom's cooling, citrusy top notes.