Kheer is a classic and beloved Indian dessert made by simmering rice in milk and sugar, flavored with aromatic spices like cardamom and garnished with nuts and dried fruits. This creamy and rich pudding is often prepared during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions across India. Kheer is not only delicious but also comforting, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a versatile dessert for any time of the year.

Ingredients:

• Basic Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup basmati rice
  • 1 liter (4 cups) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed or 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1 tablespoon pistachios, chopped (optional)
  • 8-10 strands of saffron (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) (optional for richer flavor)
• Optional Flavor Enhancers:
  • 2 tablespoons grated coconut
  • 1 teaspoon rose water

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
   • Soak the rice in enough water for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the rice cook faster and become softer.
   • If using saffron, soak the strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk to release its color and flavor.

2. Cooking the Rice:

   • In a heavy-bottomed pan or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat (optional step for added richness).
   • Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes slightly aromatic.
   • Pour in the whole milk and bring it to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom.

3. Simmering the Kheer:

   • Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. Stir frequently to avoid scorching and to help break down the rice, making the kheer creamy.
   • After about 20-25 minutes, the rice should be well-cooked and the milk will have thickened. You can mash some of the rice grains with the back of a spoon for a creamier texture.

4. Adding Sweetness and Flavor:

   • Add the sugar and mix well until it dissolves completely. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the crushed cardamom pods or cardamom powder, soaked saffron along with the milk, and rose water if using. Mix well to incorporate the flavors.

5. Adding Nuts and Dry Fruits:

   • In a small pan, optionally heat a teaspoon of ghee and lightly roast the chopped almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins until they turn golden and aromatic.
   • Add the roasted nuts and raisins to the kheer. You can also add grated coconut at this stage if desired.
   • Mix everything well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Final Touches:

   • Turn off the heat and let the kheer cool down slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
   • Serve the kheer warm for a comforting dessert or refrigerate and serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
   • Garnish with additional nuts or a pinch of saffron strands before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Proteins: ~7 g
• Carbohydrates: ~35 g
• Fiber: ~1 g
• Fat: ~9 g
• Sugar: ~25 g

Nutritional Summary: Kheer is a indulgent dessert that provides a good amount of energy and some protein primarily from milk and nuts. While it is high in carbohydrates and sugars, it also offers essential nutrients like calcium from milk and healthy fats from nuts. Enjoying kheer in moderation can be a delightful addition to a balanced diet.

Tips:

• For a vegan version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use plant-based ghee or skip it altogether.
• You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference by varying the amount of sugar.
• Experiment with different nuts and dry fruits like chopped dates, figs, or even add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Using a heavy-bottomed pan is essential to prevent the milk from burning and to ensure even cooking.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy homemade Kheer!