Introduction:
Kheer, also known as Indian rice pudding, is a beloved dessert in Indian cuisine. This creamy and fragrant delicacy is made from simple ingredients like rice, milk, sugar, and aromatic spices. Whether you call it kheer, rice kheer, or chawal ki kheer, this dessert has a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this delectable treat using readily available ingredients.
Ingredients:
To prepare a mouthwatering bowl of kheer, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Rice: Choose a high-quality, fragrant rice variety like Basmati or any medium-grain rice. Approximately 1/2 cup of rice will suffice.
Milk: 1 liter of full-fat milk is ideal for achieving that creamy texture.
Sugar: Adjust the sweetness to your preference; typically, 1/2 to 3/4 cup of sugar is used.
Cardamom: Crush a few cardamom pods to release their aromatic seeds and flavor your kheer.
Saffron Strands (optional): For a touch of luxury, add a few saffron strands soaked in warm milk.
Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and pistachios can be used for garnishing.
Ghee (clarified butter): A teaspoon of ghee adds richness to the kheer.
Raisins (optional): If you like, you can add some raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
Process
Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water before using the rice .In a heavy-bottomed pan or a large pot, add a teaspoon of ghee and the soaked rice. Sauté the rice for a few minutes until it turns translucent. In a separate pan, bring the milk to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Reduce the heat and let it simmer. Once the milk starts simmering, add the sautéed rice to it. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. As the rice cooks in the milk, add the sugar and crushed cardamom seeds. Continue to stir and cook on low heat. If you’re using saffron, soak a few strands in warm milk and add it to the kheer. This adds a delightful color and aroma. Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens to your desired consistency. This can take around 30-40 minutes. The kheer will thicken further as it cools, so don’t overcook it .Once the kheer is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins. Serve the kheer warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It can be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal or as a sweet treat on festive occasions.
