Kheer is a delectable and creamy Indian dessert that is frequently prepared for festivals, special events, or simply to satisfy a sweet taste. Kheer is a rice pudding with aromatic spices with almonds and saffron on top. Here’s how to make this scrumptious dessert:

maciji.com

Ingredients

For the Kheer:

1/2 cup Basmati rice

4 cups whole milk

1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

A pinch of saffron threads (optional)

10-12 almonds, sliced or chopped

10-12 pistachios, sliced or chopped

10-12 cashews, chopped

1 tablespoon raisins (optional)

1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)

For Garnish:

A few strands of saffron (optional)

Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)

Dried rose petals (optional)

Instructions

Wash and Soak the Rice:

The Basmati rice should be thoroughly rinsed under cold water until the water is clear.

Soak the rice for 30 minutes in enough water. Drain and set it aside.

Prepare the Saffron (if using):

If you’re using saffron, soak a pinch of saffron threads in 1-2 tablespoons of warm milk. This will release the saffron’s vibrant color and flavor.

Boil the Milk:

In a heavy-bottomed pan or a deep saucepan, bring 4 cups of whole milk to a boil over medium heat.

Stir the milk occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Add the Rice:

Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling milk

Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer in the milk.

Cook the Rice:

Cook the rice on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Continue cooking until the rice becomes soft and the mixture thickens. This can take around 30-40 minutes.

Add Sugar and Flavorings:

Add the sugar and stir well when the rice is almost cooked.

Add cardamom powder and saffron-infused milk (if using). Mix everything thoroughly.

Fry the Nuts:

In a separate small pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee over low heat.

Add the chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, and cashews) and raisins (if using).

Sauté until the nuts turn golden brown. This adds a rich, nutty flavor to your kheer.

Combine the Nuts with Kheer:

Add the fried nuts and raisins to the simmering kheer. Mix well.

Garnish:

Garnish the kheer with a few strands of saffron (if using), chopped nuts, and dried rose petals (if desired).

Cool and Serve:

Allow the kheer to cool to room temperature before serving. Kheer can be served warm or chilled.

Tips:

Adjust the sugar quantity to suit your taste. Some like it sweeter, while others prefer a less sweet kheer.

You can experiment with different nuts and dried fruits for garnish.

Be patient while cooking the rice; slow cooking helps in achieving the creamy consistency.

Kheer is a popular Indian delicacy eaten by people of all ages. It represents celebration and camaraderie, making it an ideal addition to any memorable occasion. So gather your ingredients and follow this recipe to make a bowl of creamy, aromatic kheer that will satisfy your taste buds while leaving your guests wanting more.