Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding is a delightful Indian dessert that combines the richness of rice, milk, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. This creamy treat is perfect for festivals, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its luscious texture and aromatic flavors, Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the kheer from becoming too sticky. Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
Step 2: Boil the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the whole milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Once the milk is boiling, add the soaked and drained rice to the pan. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cook the rice in the milk, stirring frequently, until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Condensed Milk
Stir in the sugar and condensed milk. Mix well and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the sweetness to meld with the creamy rice pudding.
Step 5: Flavor the Kheer
Add the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using) to the kheer. Mix thoroughly and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of the pudding.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
In a separate small pan, heat ghee and lightly sauté the chopped nuts and raisins until they are golden brown. Add the sautéed nuts and raisins to the kheer and stir well. Serve the Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding warm or chilled, garnished with extra nuts on top.
FAQs
What is the difference between kheer and rice pudding?
Kheer is an Indian dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, while rice pudding is a more general term that can refer to various rice and milk desserts from different cultures, often with different flavors and ingredients.
Can I make Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding vegan?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk and use a plant-based sweetener instead of sugar to make a vegan version of this delicious dessert.
How long can I store Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding?
Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I add other flavors to kheer?
Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors by adding rose water, vanilla extract, or even chocolate to your Sweet Kheer Rice Pudding for a unique twist.