Junnu: A Traditional Indian Pudding | Colostrum Milk Dessert

Introduction

Junnu, also known as “Junnu Paalu” or colostrum pudding, is a cherished South Indian dessert made from the first milk of a cow or buffalo after calving. This rare and rich milk, loaded with natural antibodies and nutrients, is gently sweetened with jaggery and delicately flavored with cardamom to create a soft, melt-in-the-mouth pudding.

Traditionally made during festivals or when fresh colostrum is available, Junnu is a nostalgic dish for many in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana households. It is steamed or baked until it sets into a custard-like texture. While colostrum milk may not always be accessible, you can create a close substitute using thick milk and condensed milk. This pudding is not just delicious but also packed with immunity-boosting nutrients. Let’s recreate this ancient delicacy at home!

Ingredients

• 1 cup colostrum milk (or substitute with thick milk + condensed milk)
• 1/2 cup regular whole milk
• 1/2 cup jaggery (grated or powdered)
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 1/8 tsp black pepper powder (optional)
• 2 tsp cornflour (if using regular milk, for texture)
• 1/2 tsp ghee (for greasing)
• Chopped cashews or pistachios (optional for garnish)
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tsp rose water (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine colostrum milk (or substitute), regular milk, and jaggery. Stir until the jaggery dissolves.
2. Add cardamom, pepper powder, and any optional flavorings like rose water or nutmeg.
3. If using regular milk, mix cornflour to help it set like Junnu.
4. Strain the mixture to remove impurities and jaggery lumps.
5. Grease a steel or ceramic container with ghee and pour the mixture in.
6. Steam the container in a pressure cooker or steamer (without whistle) for 20–25 minutes on low heat.
7. Insert a knife to check doneness—it should come out clean.
8. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
9. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• If colostrum milk isn’t available, use 1 cup milk + 1/2 cup condensed milk + 1 tsp cornflour.
• Use palm jaggery or brown sugar as alternatives to regular jaggery.
• Steaming gives the best texture, but you can also bake it at 160°C for 30 minutes.
• Flavor it with saffron strands for a royal touch.
• Serve in earthen pots for an authentic feel.
• For kids, reduce black pepper and garnish with raisins.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Immunoglobulins: Colostrum milk helps boost natural immunity.
• Natural Sweetener: Jaggery improves digestion and is rich in iron.
• Calcium & Protein: Supports bone strength and muscle development.
• Good for Children: Traditional use in strengthening children’s health.
• Gut-Friendly: Helps restore gut balance with healthy nutrients.

Conclusion

Junnu is more than just a dessert — it’s a cultural memory served on a plate. With its unique texture, deep flavors, and nutritional value, it’s a must-try for those exploring traditional Indian sweets.

Reconnect with your roots and enjoy this timeless delicacy at home.

Tags: junnu, junnu recipe, colostrum pudding, Indian dessert, Andhra sweets, healthy traditional sweet, jaggery pudding