Even though its name originates from Persia, barfi is an original Indian dessert which resembles a fudge. It belongs to a wider group of Indian sweets united under the name mithai. In Persian and Urdu, the name burfi denotes snow and ice, referring to the visual characteristics of this dessert in its simple, original form.

It is made with a base of condensed milk solids (khoa or khoya), granulated sugar, and ghee, and the most common ingredients added to the base include nuts, usually pistachios, cashews, and peanuts. However, fruits, saffron, rose water, gram flour, or almonds are also found in some regional varieties.

The additional ingredients affect the final appearance, consistency, and color of each type. When cooled, the dessert is cut into diamonds, circles, or squares. Barfi is eaten throughout the country but it’s especially popular in northern India, and it is a common dessert staple served on special occasions.

It is also prepared and gifted during the annual Diwali festival. When served at weddings and similar festivities, barfi is usually decorated with beaten and edible silver leaf called vark.