Kheer Recipe
Indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness of kheer, a traditional Indian dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Made with rice, milk, and flavored with aromatic spices, kheer is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply treating yourself, this comforting dish will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that combines simplicity with rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Fat: 8g
– Sugar: 10g
This nutritional information is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat.
- Add the soaked rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the rice is cooked (about 20 minutes), add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add cardamom powder, saffron strands, and nuts, mixing well.
- Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the kheer thickens to your liking.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute basmati rice with any short-grain rice or even use quinoa for a gluten-free version. Coconut milk can be used instead of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative. Adjust the sugar according to your preference or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Serving and Pairings
Kheer can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for different occasions. Pair it with savory dishes like biryani or serve it alongside fresh fruits for a refreshing dessert option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Kheer can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the rice can lead to a gummy texture.
- Cooking on high heat may cause the milk to scorch.
- Skipping the soaking step can result in unevenly cooked rice.
- Not stirring often enough can lead to sticking at the bottom.
- Adding sugar too early can prevent the rice from cooking properly.
- Using low-fat milk may reduce creaminess.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk or a mix of milk and cream.
- Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits for variations.
- Letting kheer rest for a few hours enhances the flavors.
- Garnish with rose petals for an elegant touch.
FAQs
How long can kheer be stored in the fridge?
Kheer can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I make kheer without sugar?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, or simply omit sugar for a less sweet version.
What alternatives can I use for nuts?
If you’re allergic to nuts, you can skip them or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead.
Is kheer gluten-free?
Yes, kheer is naturally gluten-free as it is made with rice, which does not contain gluten.
Can kheer be served cold?
Absolutely! Kheer can be enjoyed both warm and chilled, making it a versatile dessert choice.
Conclusion
Kheer is a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of Indian cuisine. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, it’s perfect for celebrations or as a comforting treat. Easy to prepare and customizable, this dish will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making kheer and sharing it with loved ones!
Kheer Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts almonds, cashews, pistachios
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands optional
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat.
- Add the soaked rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the rice is cooked (about 20 minutes), add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add cardamom powder, saffron strands, and nuts, mixing well.
- Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the kheer thickens to your liking.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
