Traditional Indian Food

Traditional Indian Food

Kheer

Sweet Dish, made with rice, milk, sugar & dry fruits.

Benefits

Namaste🙏

Kheer is an ancient Indian delicacy prepared on all auspicious occasions & festivals. It is a tender amalgamation of rice cooked in milk and sugar, with constant stirring & hint of saffron along dry fruits. It is a delight to eat kheer in summers especially as it cools down the body. Being sweet, it gives instant energy to the body. Being a classic Indian dessert, kheer holds a special place in many hearts. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavor make it a beloved treat for various occasions. It is also known as rice pudding, is a sumptuous dessert originating from the Indian subcontinent. It’s characterized by its luscious creaminess and sweet, aromatic flavors. Variations of Kheer can be found across different regions, each offering a unique twist on this cherished dish.

Today, we’ll dive into how to make this delightful dish that’s sure to evoke warm memories.

  • It has rice, therefore cooling on the body. 
  • Milk is rich in calcium & this mixture combines to give a good amount of antioxidants.
  • Kheer is generally made on auspicious occasions, serving it shows respect towards your guests.

Recipe, Serving – 2 persons

Kheer is very easy to prepare, with all ingredients available in your kitchen or readily available at any local store near you. 

All you need:

  1. ½ cup rice soaked in water for at least 1 hour
  2. Milk (preferably full fat) – 1 liter
  3. Handful of cashew nuts, dry raisins & almonds
  4. Sugar – ½ cup (you may add more sugar if you want. I like it on less sweeter side, therefore the measurement)

Recipe

  1. Begin by rinsing 1/2 cup of basmati rice in cold water. This removes excess starch, ensuring the Kheer is creamy without being too thick. – After rinsing, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This softens the grains, making them cook more evenly.
  2. Pour 1 liter of whole milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Place it over medium heat and let it come to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom. 
  3. Add the soaked rice in the milk. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the milk. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat allowing milk & rice to cook slowly.
  4. Almost after 15 minutes of slow cooking, gradually add 1/2 cup of sugar to the simmering mixture. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar completely. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference, add sugar & keep mixing.
  5. Crush 4-5 green cardamom pods to release the aromatic seeds. Add them to the simmering Kheer for a delightful flavor. Optionally, you can also include a handful of chopped nuts and a few strands of saffron for an added touch of richness.
  6. Continue to simmer the Kheer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. It should have a creamy texture with soft rice grains.
  7. Once done, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Ladle it into serving bowls and garnish with additional nuts and saffron strands for a visually appealing presentation.

Serving

This is a delicacy where people have their own taste buds whether to enjoy it hot or cold.

You may serve it hot in winters & cold in summers. It just gives you foodgasms. There you have it, a delectable bowl of homemade Kheer! Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this creamy delight is sure to bring smiles to your table. Try it out and savor the flavors of this cherished Indian dessert.

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the “Kheer Recipe”:

FAQs – Kheer Recipe

Q: Can I use any type of rice for making Kheer?

A: While basmati rice is the traditional choice for Kheer, you can experiment with other varieties like long-grain or short-grain rice. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Q: Is it necessary to soak the rice before cooking?

A: Soaking the rice is recommended as it helps to reduce cooking time and ensures even cooking. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but be prepared for a slightly longer cooking process.

Q: Can I use alternatives to cow’s milk for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Q: How can I adjust the sweetness of the Kheer to my preference?

A: You can add more or less sugar according to your taste. It’s advisable to start with a smaller quantity and taste as you go, adding more if needed.

Q: Can I omit the nuts and dried fruits from the recipe?

A: Absolutely, the nuts and dried fruits are optional and can be omitted if you have allergies or simply prefer not to include them. The Kheer will still be delicious.

Q: How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?

A: Stirring the mixture regularly and using a heavy-bottomed pan can help prevent sticking. Additionally, make sure to cook on medium to low heat.

Enjoy!!!

Leave a comment