Kheer is a popular Indian dessert that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a creamy and rich dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar. The dessert is flavored with cardamom and garnished with chopped almonds and raisins. Kheer is typically served warm or chilled, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Instructions
- Rinse the rice in cold water and soak it for 30 minutes.
- In a large saucepan, add the milk and bring it to a boil. Add the rice and stir well. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for 30-35 minutes, or until it becomes soft and the milk thickens.
- Add the sugar, almonds, raisins, and cardamom to the saucepan and stir well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves and the kheer thickens.
- Remove the kheer from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm or chilled, garnished with additional almonds and raisins if desired.
Vegetarian and Vegan Variations
To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply replace the whole milk with a plant-based milk such as almond milk, soy milk or coconut milk. You can also use vegan sugar or natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave syrup.
Gluten-Free Variation
If you’re looking for a gluten-free version of kheer, simply use a gluten-free variety of rice such as basmati rice.
Tips and Tricks
- Be sure to soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the rice cook faster and become more tender.
- Use whole milk for a creamier and richer kheer.
- Don’t skimp on the cardamom. It adds a wonderful flavor to the dish.
- Garnish the kheer with additional chopped almonds and raisins for extra texture and flavor.
Kheer is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it warm or chilled, this creamy and sweet dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
FAQ
What is Kheer?
Kheer is a popular Indian dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts.
What type of rice should I use for making Kheer?
Traditionally, Basmati rice is used for making Kheer. However, you can also use any other short-grain rice or even broken rice.
Can I use low-fat milk for making Kheer?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk for making Kheer. However, using whole milk will give a creamier and richer texture to the dish.
How do I prevent the Kheer from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan?
Stir the Kheer frequently to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan. If you notice that the Kheer is starting to stick, reduce the heat and stir more frequently.
Can I make Kheer ahead of time?
Yes, Kheer can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it is best to reheat the Kheer before serving.
Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar for making Kheer?
Yes, you can use other sweeteners like jaggery, honey, or maple syrup instead of sugar for making Kheer. Adjust the quantity of sweetener according to your taste.
Can I add other flavors to Kheer?
Yes, you can add other flavors to Kheer like rose water, cinnamon, or nutmeg. However, be careful not to overpower the flavor of cardamom and saffron.
Can I use non-dairy milk for making Kheer?
Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk for making Kheer. However, the texture and flavor of the dish may vary.
Can I make Kheer without nuts?
Yes, you can make Kheer without nuts. However, nuts add a crunch and flavor to the dish, so it is recommended to use them.
How do I serve Kheer?
You can serve Kheer warm or chilled, garnished with nuts and saffron. It can be served as a dessert or a sweet dish after a meal.
