Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar, often flavored with aromatic spices like cardamom and garnished with nuts and dried fruits. This creamy, rich pudding is a staple at Indian festivals and celebrations, offering comfort in its warm and soothing texture. With its delicate balance of sweetness and subtle flavors, kheer can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. The slow simmering of rice in milk gives the dish its creamy texture, while the addition of saffron or rose water can elevate its fragrance to an exotic level.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron threads (optional)
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse and soak the rice: Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
- Cook the rice in milk: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add the soaked rice and reduce the heat to low. Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Simmer and thicken: Continue to cook the rice in the milk for about 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes soft and the milk reduces and thickens. The consistency should be creamy, but not too thick as it will thicken more upon cooling.
- Sweeten and flavor: Once the rice is fully cooked and the mixture has thickened, add the sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. If using saffron, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm milk and add it to the kheer at this stage.
- Temper the nuts: In a small pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds, pistachios, and raisins, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden. Stir the sautéed nuts and raisins into the kheer.
- Finishing touch: Add rose water if desired, and stir well.
- Serve: The kheer can be served warm or chilled. Garnish with additional slivered nuts before serving for extra texture and presentation.
Enjoy this creamy and aromatic dessert that brings a touch of sweetness to any special occasion!
