Kheer Recipe
Kheer is a luscious Indian dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Made primarily from rice, milk, and sugar, this delightful pudding is often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts and dried fruits. Whether served during celebrations or as a sweet ending to a meal, Kheer is sure to please everyone. Get ready to create this heavenly dish with our easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup grated coconut (optional)
- Rose petals for garnish (optional)
- Pinch of saffron (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 30-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 250 calories, 8g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein. This is based on the main ingredients and can vary depending on additional toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee over medium heat.
- Add the soaked rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens.
- Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron, stirring until dissolved.
- Mix in the chopped nuts and raisins; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve warm or chilled, garnished with rose petals and additional nuts.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute basmati rice with any short-grain rice for a creamier texture. Coconut milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free version. Sweeteners like jaggery or honey can also be used as alternatives to sugar.
Serving and Pairings
Kheer pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian dishes. Serve it alongside spicy curries for a balanced meal, or enjoy it after a festive feast. It also complements fresh fruit or can be topped with additional nuts for extra crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed. Kheer can also be frozen, but it may alter the texture slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the rice can lead to a gummy texture.
- Skipping the soaking step may result in unevenly cooked rice.
- Using low-fat milk can affect the creaminess of the kheer.
- Overcooking can cause the rice to become mushy.
- Not stirring frequently can lead to burning at the bottom.
- Adding sugar too early can prevent proper thickening.
- Using too much water may dilute the flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer taste, use full-fat milk.
- Experiment with flavorings like vanilla or orange zest.
- Let kheer sit for a couple of hours for flavors to meld.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
- Garnish with edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
Can I make kheer in advance?
Yes, kheer can be made a day ahead. It often tastes better after sitting, allowing the flavors to develop.
Is kheer gluten-free?
Absolutely! Kheer is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
How long does kheer last in the fridge?
Kheer can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of sugar?
You can use jaggery, honey, or maple syrup as natural sweeteners in place of sugar.
Conclusion
Kheer is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. This creamy rice pudding is perfect for any occasion, and with its simple preparation, you can delight your family and friends. Enjoy the rich taste and aroma of this classic Indian dish that truly warms the heart!
Kheer Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts almonds, cashews, pistachios
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1/4 cup grated coconut optional
- Rose petals for garnish optional
- Pinch of saffron optional
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee over medium heat.
- Add the soaked rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens.
- Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron, stirring until dissolved.
- Mix in the chopped nuts and raisins; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve warm or chilled, garnished with rose petals and additional nuts.