Delight in the Creamy Goodness of Pista Kulfi
Pista Kulfi is a traditional Indian ice cream made with pistachios, milk, and aromatic spices. This pista kulfi recipe is perfect for cooling off on a hot day or enjoying a delightful dessert after a meal. The rich, creamy texture and the nutty flavour of pistachios make this dessert a favorite among many.
The Essence of Pista Kulfi
The essence of pista kulfi lies in its rich and creamy texture, achieved by slowly simmering milk until it thickens and reduces. The addition of pistachios and a touch of cardamom gives this kulfi its distinctive flavor. This pistachio ice cream is a traditional Indian dessert that brings a touch of authenticity to any occasion, making it a popular choice for festivals and celebrations.
Origin and Popularity
Kulfi, often referred to as Indian ice cream, has been a beloved dessert in India for centuries. Unlike regular ice cream, kulfi is denser and creamier due to the slow cooking process of the milk. Pista kulfi, with its rich pistachio flavor, has become one of the most popular variations of this dessert. It’s commonly enjoyed during hot summer months and is a staple in many Indian households.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Creamy: The slow-simmered milk gives the kulfi a rich and creamy texture. Nutty Flavor: The pistachios add a delightful nutty flavor that compliments the creamy base. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for cooling off on a hot day or serving at festive occasions.
Variations of Indian Ice Cream Recipes
Exploring Manjula’s Kitchen reveals a treasure trove of other delicious Indian ice cream recipes that you might enjoy. Here are some related desserts that you might find interesting:
Serving Suggestions
Pista kulfi can be enjoyed in various ways:
On a Stick: Serve in traditional kulfi molds or popsicle molds for a fun treat. In a Bowl: Scoop into bowls and garnish with chopped pistachios and saffron strands. With Falooda: Serve with falooda (vermicelli) and rose syrup for a classic combination. As a Dessert: Enjoy as a refreshing dessert after a spicy meal.
Tips and Tricks
To perfect your pista kulfi recipe, consider these helpful tips:
Use Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat milk gives the kulfi a richer and creamier texture. Simmer Slowly: Simmer the milk on low heat to avoid burning and to achieve the perfect consistency. Grind Pistachios: Grind the pistachios finely for a smoother texture or coarsely for a crunchier bite. Freeze Properly: Ensure the kulfi is frozen solid before serving for the best texture.
Can I Use Condensed Milk?
Yes, you can use condensed milk to speed up the thickening process and add extra sweetness.
How Long Does Pista Kulfi Last in the Freezer?
Pista kulfi can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Is Pista Kulfi Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it is made with milk, sugar, and pistachios.
Can I Add Other Nuts?
Yes, you can add other nuts like almonds or cashews to enhance the flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Have Kulfi Molds?
You can use popsicle molds, small bowls, or even paper cups to freeze the kulfi.
Your kulfi is Amazing I finally find the same taste as my mom’s kulfi but she passed away and i didnt have her recipe.
If i do for 20 persons, should i do one batch or you suggest i do three Times?
Hi manjula ji, What we can use instead of cornstarch?
I make kulfI often in summer as popsicle. I have never added slice bread could you tell me the purpose of slice bread. Love your recipes lovely lady. You are awesome and you make cooking with family so much fun.
Kathika, thank you I add the bread to avoid crytalized the ice cream
Can we use aluminium foil instead of cellophane
Rubi, yes
Dear Manjula ji… This recipe seems to be perfect. ..pls suggest me one thing…I am inviting 25 guests..so how much quantity of ingredients would I need to make it
Hi Manjula aunty,
could you help in the amount of milk that you are using in this kulfi?.. 4 cups means how many litres…
Please tell the amount in litres.
I love all your recipies and its all yummy with presentation as well.
Stay healthy 🙂 Divyaa
Divyaa, 1 cup has 8oz milk
Hi Manjula Mam Your pistachio kulfi looks very delicious and easy to make . I just have a question for you for this recipe i.e. when you put cling wrap to cover the milk mixture do you put the lid on bowl too after putting cling wrap please advise as I would like to try your yummy recipe, thanks
Simmi, Either it way will work but lid is not necessary.
This looks delicious! Could you please suggest an alternative to using bread as a thickener, for gluten free version? Thanks.
Anna, use about 1 teaspoon agar-agar about 1/2 teaspoon same time with corn starch
Manjula ji …what it mean ( It is important that the cellophane wrap touches the milk.)….
Madhu, cellophane wrap should touch the milk
can i cover kulfi with aluminium foil? ur recipe is so delicious.im convinced that it’ll come out great definitely. im gonna try this for 0ur family reunion tonight. i dnt have that wrap on hands right now. pls reply asap. thanks.
Great recipe. mam. Can I use Cling Film instead of Cellophane wrap? Thanks!
Zia, Yes
can you use reduced fat milk to make kulfi also?
mari1126, sorry no
Dear Manjula I replaced corn starch with all purpose flour and I tried to blend bread with it.I found clumps.But then I strained it and added to the boiled milk.
Even after cooling I found the consistency was liquid and not gluey.Now it’s in the freezer.Fingers crossed ..Can you tel how to improve consistency
Thank you
Regards Priyaa
Priyaa, All purpose flour in not a substitute for corn starch you can use arrowroot.
Thanks for your time for composing “Pista Kulfi (Pistachio Ice Cream) | Manjula’s Kitchen | Indian Vegetarian Recipes | Cooking Videos”. I reallywill surely end up being returning for a great deal more browsing and commenting here in the near future. Thanks, Polly
This looks fabulous — can’t wait to make it. Can skim milk be used?
Manjula aunty – you are great the more I look at your cooking and after 20 minutes I go prepare to make the Indian style french fries..I tell you THANKS A LOT it came out fantastic..
Last nite I made the Kulfi I never eat yet..I wil try it tomorrow afternoon after lunch…
You are such an Angel ..I love the way you give us so much .. A billions thanks..
Auntiji,
I love you so much.
I love all your Kulfi so much…plus good instructions so clear and helps me understand so I can make for dinner tomorrow…u are so good in cooking …
aunty jiiiiiii yummmmmmm it is really awsmmmmmmmm you make awsm recipes no doubt in it …u r dam good best
Made the kulfi yesterday. It tasted yummy and we liked it very much. I think I hadn’t heated the milk enough which made the kulfi too icy with the frozen water. I”m sure it will taste even better next time when I heat the milk enough. Thank you very much for your lovely recipes.
HELLO, MANJULA I JUST START WATCHING YOUR EPISODE AND I REALLY LIKE , I JUST WNAT TO MAKE THE KULFI BUT I COUDN’T FIND THE CORNSTRACH IN HERE UK
THANKS
Thanx for the wonderful recipe. I have made this 3-4 times already. It comes out always wonderful….my family now calls me KULFI EXPERT….courtesy you :-))
Ingredients are just perfect….!!
Can we use all purpose flour (maida) instead of corn starch?
Shree, All purpose flour and corn starch can not be substituted for each other.
What is cellophane wrap and where i can i get this. what you call for this in Hindi. Can i get this one i Adil supermarket in Dubai. Could you please send the reply to kamathcatherine@gmail.com
Hi Manjula
I have made this recipe a few times now for friends and they, and I, love it! The flavour is great, but could you please tell me what the texture should be like – mine seems to have ice crystals inside the kulfi, is this correct or am I doing something wrong?
Great videos and recipes, by the way.
Pauline Kulfi will have some crystal but not much I like to freeze this in shallow bowl to avoid crystals.
Hi, I made the kulfi in popsicles and it turned out nice. Thanks for the recipe
Hi Firstly, so nice of you to take so much bother to make your recipes available.
Could you please explain why we need to cover it touching with cellophane ? ie what is the purpose of this step ?
Thanks You.
Would this work with a nondairy milk (such as almond milk) instead of whole milk, by any chance?
Danni, I have never tried cooking is more fun creating your own recipe, trying different ingredients.
plzz reply me at my email…..
and I forgot , can we use corn flour instead of corn starch…?
A little research will tell you that “cornflour” is the word used in British english for corn starch.
What is cardammom??plzz tell me , bcause I luv your dishes…and I want to make your kulfi ice cream too…It looks so yummy.
hi samira cardomom is elachi
u r simply amazing. ur dishes r 2 gud mam…………….. no words…………. mouthwatering………………… god bless u…………
Hi there, just wondering can you substitute regular cow’s milk with goat’s milk in this recipe? Thanks.
The kulfi turns excellent …!!
To prevent the kulfi from becoming hard Then once the mixture is all done, you put the mixture in a food processor and add 1-2 bread slices cut them up and grind it together then freeze The bread stops it from becoming rock hard
Munjala I appreciate the effort it must take for you to share your recipes with everyone. More folks are able to utilize your cooking skills because you speak English. You also say “Namastey” in your videos which is exclusive greeting for Indian/hindu culture. It would have been different if your program was in your native language and targeted to Indian audience only. Your program is for English speaking audience who are from all cultures and all walks of lives and feel excluded with your greeting. I hope you can consider something more inclusive. Thank You
I believe Manjula merely wishes to greet the viewers in a customary manner. If you are interested in Indian food, there is no reason why a bit of exposure to the culture should insult you. Criticizing her for saying ‘Namaste’ is like watching a video on Japanese cooking and being horrified when the host says ‘Konnichiwa’ or other Japanese terms. So who really should be worried about not being inclusive enough…? Just relax and enjoy the food!
hi manjula, can you make a simple recipe that doesnt include like using a pan?
Hi Manjula,
I tried your kulfi recipe and it came out verry well. thanks a ton..hubby liked it very much.
thanks! i did kulfi & stirfry arbi.both were good.
i make kulfi really in an easy way… one can condensed milk 250 ml appraximately one can evaporated milk 300 ml apx one half and half cream 200 ml apx Add these in a bowl, add pistachios and a bit of crushed ilaichi…. put them in molds n freeze…. it comes out so creamy n without ice pallets…. my kid loves it n can be made witout any hassle of boiling anything…
hey wat is evaporated milk n whole milk can i use nestle pure milk instead of evaporated or whole milk
i tried making kulfi twice. it came out good but it was rock hard . difficult to scopp it out. what could be the reason?
i made kulfi on the weekend.came out real good. however i had two problems 1) there were ice crystals in the ice cream, and 2) it was rock hard when frozen i did a second batch with whipping cream instead of whole milk was a little better but still rock hard what did i do wrong for it to be so hard that i could not even scoop it out of the bowl?
Jasdev, may be you added too much corn starch.
Hello manjula aunty: I liked your recipes. I like the simplicity in your recipe. Thanks for such wonderful and great recipes. Can I use 2%milk for Kulfi / ice cream recipe. Please reply.
Vini, You can use 2% milk but you will have to boil the milk for 5 to 6 minutes longer.
hello manjula ji i would like to know wat is cornstarch. is it corn flour or something else plz reply me.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cornstarch
Hi Manjula, I’m an italian fan of yours. I like the Indian food and the way you use to cook it. I would like to congratulate you on the semplicty with whom you explain your recipes and as I want to try to cook your dishes, I would like to know the grams-weight of the plastic and glass cups that you use. thank you for you reply and have nice days.
I hope Manjula ji will reply to you for this problem because I’m sure she has made this dish more often that I have and offer suggestions for corrections.
hi jaya, eventhough i could cut the kulfi with a knife, yet i couldnot cut it with a spoon while eating. ultimately i had to hold it in my hand and eat. dont know where i am going wrong
Swagatika, You did not boil the milk enough or used too much corn starch.
hi jaya or manjulaji, there were tiny ice crystals in the kulfi i made. i had pressed the plastic firmly in the mix. when i took the mixture out of the stove, it still looked a bit watery. i kept it in the freezer for more than 24 hours at the coldest point. can u pl advise. your kulfi looks creamy and yummy in the video. i could cut the kulfi with a knife after taking out though.
Swagatika, I wouldn’t worry about small ice crystals. It’s hard to prevent them completely. Did your kulfi taste good otherwise?
yes, it was lovely. thanks
This is a very exciting post, I was looking for this info. Just so you know I discovered your webpage when I was doing research for blogs like mine, so please check out my site sometime and leave me a comment to let me know what you think.
as some have suggested i used silicone muffin molds…all your recipes are always tastier….this is just an other one.
mam can u tell alternate for cellophane wrap i am in india can i use polythene cover or aluminium foil ?
Annanya use polythene
hi madam.i dont know cornstarch .what is that.it is easy to buy in indian grocery stores or not.with out mixing cornstrach kulfi comes good or not.what is the alternative.please reply me .tomarrow is my sister birthday
Hello Priya, Try arrow root.
I live in India in a small town. cellophane strip is not available here. what can i use instead of cellophane strip. plz help
Swagatika, you can use any clean thin plastic wrap that can be used to cover the kulfi.
Thanks jaya for the prompt response. I have an old ziplock bag. can i use it to cover the kulfi. is it important that the bag should touch the kulfi mix? or can i just tie the mouth of the container. another option is that I can put the container in the ziplock bag and seal it. what should i do. please help. thanks
hello jaya or manjulaji, I am still looking for a reply to my query. can u please advise. thanks
Sorry Swagatika, I missed your question before. The plastic should be in contact with the kulfi. Press the plastic all around and gently pat it down on the kulfi. This keeps ice crystals from forming on the kulfi.
thanks jaya. I made it y day and taste was very good. but there were tiny ice crystals while eating. i have a feeling i should have reduced the milk more. i kept it in the freezer for more than 24 hrs. when i took the mix out of the stove it still looked watery. i had pressed the polythene firmly. can u please advise.
thanks jaya. I made it y day and taste was very good. but there were tiny ice crystals while eating. i have a feeling i should have reduced the milk more. i kept it in the freezer for more than 24 hrs. when i took the mix out of the stove it still looked watery. i had pressed the polythene firmly. can u please advise. thanks
dearest Aunty
Could we use aluminium foil instead of cellophane wrap for the kulfi
Ashu, aluminum foil will leave a metallic taste to the kulfi.
I made the kulfi yesterday and it was AWESOME! I did not have any crystalizing problem like others. To freeze it, instead of using a bowl, I used a silicone muffin pan to make individual kulfi. I covered it really well with a plastic wrap like the recipe. Unmolding was easy too as it was silicone. I just had to push each kulfi from the back after few minutes or so. Superb! thanks Aunty! 🙂
Forgot to mention one thing….the recipe made 6 invidual kulfis. It will be fantastic to serve this decorated with few pcs of pista on top and a mint sprig!
hello manjula ji,can i use ararowt instead of cornstarch in this recipe.
Hello Manjula auntyji,
Happy new Year!!
I tried making kulfi using exact measures and ingredients that you have mentioned. But unfortunately, it has still crystallized when frozen. I poured some in pop moulds (no cellophane paper used and the rest in a freezer dish covering with cellophane paper touching the liquid. It tastes perfect but the ice crystals are making it disappointing. Pl suggest!!
Malini
Which pista should we use for kulfi salted or unsalted please reply.
Hi Vilma, Use unsalted Pista.
For Indian sweets, always use the unsalted version of whatever the nut is. Generally, the unsalted nuts are easier to find in Indian grocery stores. American grocery stores usually sell the salted kinds for snacking.
Hello Aunty,
Can we use half and half instead of wholemilk for this recipe? Does it make the recipe richer and does it also reduce the boiling time of milk? Please reply me aunty. Tomorrow is my husband’s birthday and I want to surprise him with Kulfi. Thank you.
Hi Bhuvana, As you mention half and half will do both things make it richer and will reduce the cooking time.
Dear Manjula aunti
What is cornstarch, is it referred to as cornflour?? If not can u buy easly cornstrach in market??? Thanks a lot.
Manju Madam,
Can you please explain cake and Home made choclate with out using oven, as i didnt have oven in my home. Awaiting for your reply.
Dear Manjula madam,
You were simply great. the dishes your making is very very easy to do. I made rasagulla and aloo paratha. My husband admired a lot and my in laws enjoy. Thanks a lot, I am newly married and need your blessings.
hello manjula ji, i am a big fan of yours..! just wanted to let you know that this kulfi was amazing !! i followed the exact recipe and it turned out just perfect !! thank you.
Hi, I am a high school student and I love desi food. Your recipes make cooking so easy. I admire your cooking method and keep up the good work. I tried pista kulfi and ras malai recipes, they were great.
2% milk is nothing but half reduced fat from the whole milk.. otherwords it is called as Fat Reduced milk
Can i use a 2% milk( which we call it in USA) instead of Whole milk.
Your Kulfi is very very nice………….thank you.
hi, i need to know do need to put the kulfy in the ice section.
The ice section is what we call the freezer in the US.
Generally, cornflour is the same as corn starch depending on which country you live in it goes by either name.
Hi, what is cornstarch. is it a cornflour.Can i use cornflour instead of cornstarch.
yes,you can use cornflour instead of cornstarch.
Hi, Aunti I made kulfi with almonds and also bundi ladoo both were good and my husband liked it, he loves sweet,all credits goes to you. Thank you for helping me,i dont know cooking since i am just married and getting into kitchen now only and i am now away from my mother so some days i will be struggling in kitchen, you are now just like my mother who teaches me,you are doing a great job.Thankyou.
hi aunty ji i have one more question…what do you mean by saying whole milk? is that regular milk or what?? i wanted to make kulfi but then i didnt know what you ment by saying whole milk. thank you manjula aunty
it will be regular milk
aunty ji mmm how much is 3 tablespoons in mL?? if you know can you please reply!! thank you very much!! =)
Namastay Aunty
Mein Kal aap ka Kulfi ka recepie dekh kar mein try kari thi wo bahut achi tarah aya aur bahut tasty bhi tha. Mere Husband aur Mere friends ko bahut acha lagha. thanks for ur recepie
Half and Half in the US is a milk and cream mixture sold in the milk or dairy section of the grocery store.
hello aunty , you mentioned ‘half n half milk’ what is it????thanx
some time using 1 cup half anf half milk helps.
Hi aunty,
I am very big fan of u aunty. I tried ur kulfi. But it came out with ice crystals. I followed exactly same as u said. only one thing i changed is i used kulfi moulds. pls give me any suggestion.
hai Manjulaa aunty…..ur recipies r too gud..n very simple….Thanks 4 sharing wit us……..Thanks a lot….Iam trying each one of urs…its comng very gud…
Oh sorry…didnt read that you have already given answer to this earlier. I got it
Dear Manjula ji,
A big fan of your “Difficult recipes made easy” 🙂 Yes they really are giving minute details of everything one need. I discovered your website by chance and now a lot of my friends are your fan.
A query- can I use cornflour instead of cornstarch for the kulfi? Actually don’t know the difference so asking.
Thanks in advance
thankyou aunty and i am goin to try ur recipe today
Hello Shilpa, sorry you can not substitue maida for cornstarch.
Hi manjula,
I like your recipes a lot, it has been helpful to me a loooot.i have a Q about kulfi recipe, can i substitute 2tsp of maida with 2tsp of water instead of cornstarch?
shilpa
hello’ manjulaji, how are you i am monika staying in Noida, india i liked your recipes very much. they are so easy to cook and they are less time consuming. well i want to know the recipe for the cake can you give me that monika
hello aunty, kulfi was really great but I would like to request u on behalf of my daughter as she also liked your gajar halwa recipie a lot ,can u give recipie of home made mawa sweet I will be thankful as she ate in india since then she’s been asking me to ask u. love & regards
hi manjula aunty,
your recipes rock..they are so0o0o0 easy to make and i can find all the ingredients here in singapore…..! i can’t wait for more… i love the masala french fries the most… they taste extremely nice… thanks aunty…
Hi Sarika, In USA it is sold under the name “Saran Wrap”. Just ask a clerk when you go to the American grocery store. It’s sold along side things like aluminum foil. Saran Wrap is a brand, you can buy other brands of this cling film also. Good luck.
Hi manjulaji, I tried upma recipe and it came out very nice…Thanks a lot manjulaji ,why pista kulfi recipe video is not available….I dont know where i can find cellophane wrap .Can u please help me out.I live in usa..can u please tell me where can i find it.
Hello, This looks every good. Will try it soon. As diwali is on its way I am getting ready to preparing for it andI am looking a recipe for Gugaras not sure if this is the correct spelling. If you can help it would be great. bye
Hello, Manjula ji I really like you and your recipes I am a pakistani .But now I live in Germany. I have learned too much recipes from you thank you very much for giving us too much love and you teach us very well thank you and god bless you. Shamaila Sheikh from Germany.
hello aunty i am amazed… completely amazed… after seeing this recipe… the simplest kulfi recipe i hav ever come across… and the best past… no fancy ingredients… i guess i hav everyth handy… so m gonna try this tmrw itself… thanks!!
hello aunty you are doing a great job,your show was so understandebly taught,i really liked it
thank u so much aunty …. awaititng for more recepies from u …. 🙂
Hi Anita, corn flour is a flour and corn starch is a thickener and this work really good with milk, provides the creamyness and thicken the milk. Check in the grocery store where they keep baking thing. If you really cannot find it, then just omitting it and use half more slice of bread.
hi aunty is corn starch and corn flour same , can i use corn flour in this recepie
Hello Dipti, I think you neede to boil the milk little more.
Oh! I tried it but still there were ice crystals………….will increasing the quantity of corn starch help.
Dear Auntie, I watched your video and will try it soon.I have a comment I hope you won’t mind.You are looking really nice in this video.
This looks really delicious……….will surely try this 🙂
Hi Manjula aunty,
I tried this receipe and it came out very nice!
Thanks
Sowmya Chandrasekaran
Hi Yameen, have you checked the grocery stores for it?
If you really cannot find it, then just omitting it is probably the best solution. There are not substitutes for everything. Although there are various kinds of starches and thickeners, they have different properties depending on what you mix them with.
Some work better with dairy, some work better when heated, etc…
anything which we can use in place of cornflour starch plz suggest soon.thanks
Hi Tam, I have know found the cellophane wrap it is called Cling Film, here in UK,
Thanks for describing the item
Hello Manjulaji Yesterday i tried this recipe and it came out very well. Thanks for the simple and delicious recipe you gave us. My family also enjoyed this recipe very much.
Hi Yatin,
U can find it wth the name of Saran wrap / plastic wrap sheet roll..it comes in a box similar to aluminium foil sheet roll.
Hope it is of some help to u .
Hello Yatin, food bag should work fine as long it is touching the kulfi milk, I dont know what you mean by not perfect I need to know little more to help.
if the people want they can add vanilla flavour powder which is also like starch and and easily find like other ice cream falvours,or we can use gelatine powder its also availabe in store and its also easy to find….m i right aunty…?
Hi Annette, thanks for joining in and helping out. 🙂
Corn flour is the British term for the American corn starch, and so I’m betting that the same is true in Commonwealth countries. Hope that helps.
Hi Jayanthy, then go with Manjula’s advice. I had looked around on the internet and the terms can get confusing. There is something called corn flour which has no resemblance to corn starch – I should have caught that when I wrote my reply. You can tell true corn flour because it’s yellowish in color.
I had read that in some places corn flour can be a local term for corn starch. Corn starch is a fine, silky white powder. Is that what your corn flour looks like?
Hi Jaya, Thanks for your response. Aunty has already mentioned in one of her comments that corn starch and corn flour are different hence i looked for corn starch. But if corn flour is suffice for this recipe then i have it with me and i could go ahead try this recipe.
Hi Jayanthy, Corn starch is also called “corn flour” or “maize corn flour”. It must be available in Singapore because it is a common ingredient in Chinese cooking used to thicken sauces. Potato starch is another type of thickener, but I don’t know if it will give the same result in this recipe as the corn starch/corn flour. I would try a few more stores and ask for either corn starch or corn flour. Let us know if you can locate it. 🙂
Hi Aunty,
I’m from Singapore.I looked for Corn starch in the baking section of the grocery store i want not able to find it , instead i could get potato starch can i use it.
Thanks in advance.
Hello
Is that corn startch and cornflour r same
Dear Manjula Auntie,
You cook wonderful recipes I really enjoy making them, You have told us a wonderful new way to make Kulfi, I really enjoyed making it,
Auntie Ji, I live in the U.K and I don’t know were to get Celleopane Wrap from, I used a normal food bag before but it did’nt come out perfect, please tell me.
Keep it up Auntie ji,
Hi Tam, corn flour and corn starch both are different, you can find corn starch in any grocery store in there baking section
Awesome & cmpltly new technique of mking kulfi tht I hve come across so far. Will gve it a try tomorrow.One question :-
Is corn starch same as corn flour ???
Thanks in advance. Post more recipes cant wait for long !!
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