Nutty Kheer

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Nutty Kheer is a delightful Indian dessert that combines creamy milk, fragrant basmati rice, and a mix of nuts and spices. It's a perfect treat for festive occasions or whenever you crave something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients for Nutty Kheer

Basmati rice provides a delicate aroma and texture that's ideal for kheer. Whole milk gives the kheer its creamy base. Sugar adds sweetness, while ground cardamom and saffron threads infuse exotic flavors. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness. The almonds, cashews, and pistachios bring a delightful crunch, offset by the chewy sweetness of golden raisins. And of course, ghee adds richness and depth.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you're short on time, use pre-toasted nuts to save a step.
  • For deeper flavor, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm milk before adding it to the kheer.
  • Adjust the sugar to your taste—some prefer it less sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Nutty Kheer can be served warm or chilled. For a festive touch, garnish with additional slivered nuts or edible silver leaf. Pair it with a cup of chai for a cozy evening treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice?
While basmati is traditional, you can use any long-grain rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is there a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, you can use almond milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
How long can I store the kheer?
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will thicken as it cools, so you might need to add a splash of milk when reheating.

Nutty Kheer Recipe Walkthrough

First, rinse the basmati rice thoroughly; this helps remove excess starch. Then, let it soak in water for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors better.

In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat a tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the drained rice. Sauté it gently, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fragrant and lightly toasted.

Pour in the whole milk and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens—patience is key!

After about 20 minutes, add the sugar, ground cardamom, saffron, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and continue to cook until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to your liking.

While your kheer is simmering, take a separate pan and lightly toast the almonds, cashews, and pistachios. This step enhances their flavor and gives them a nice crunch.

Add the toasted nuts and golden raisins to the rice mixture. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently. This ensures the nuts are well incorporated and the kheer is creamy and delicious.

Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, creamy texture with a delightful crunch from the nuts.
  • Perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
  • Simple ingredients yet feels indulgent and special.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
4 cups whole milk
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup almonds, slivered
1/4 cup cashews, chopped
1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1/4 tsp saffron threads
1 tbsp ghee
Pinch of salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the ghee over medium heat and add the drained rice. Sauté for a few minutes until the rice is fragrant.
3. Pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. After 20 minutes, add sugar, cardamom, saffron, and a pinch of salt. Continue to cook until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens.
5. In a separate pan, lightly toast the almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Add them, along with the raisins, to the rice mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the nuts are well incorporated and the kheer reaches the desired consistency.
7. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

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