Imagine a dessert so rich, so velvety, and so irresistibly delicious that it transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India with just one spoonful. Rice Kheer is not just a dessert; it's a cultural experience that blends the comforting warmth of milk, the subtle sweetness of rice, and the aromatic touch of cardamom into a heavenly treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a dessert lover, a culinary adventurer, or someone looking to impress their dinner guests, this traditional Indian rice pudding is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup khoya (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios)
- Raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a heavy-bottomed wide pan, add the milk and rice together. Bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to cook and the milk to reduce, which will take approximately 25-30 minutes.
- As the milk reduces, the mixture will start to thicken. Scrape the sides of the pan to incorporate any milk solids that form during cooking.
- When the rice is soft and the milk has reduced to a creamy consistency, add sugar and khoya (if using). Stir well to incorporate.
- Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly.
- Remove from heat and let the kheer cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Garnish with chopped almonds, pistachios, and raisins. You can toast the nuts lightly for enhanced flavor.
- Serve warm or chilled, depending on preference. Kheer can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold as well.
Tips
- Choose the right rice: Use short-grain or medium-grain rice for the creamiest texture.
- Patience is key: Cook on low heat and stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Scrape those milk solids: The golden bits that form on the pan's sides add incredible depth of flavor.
- Control your sweetness: Add sugar gradually and taste as you go to achieve your perfect level of sweetness.
- Enhance the aroma: Lightly toast your nuts before garnishing to bring out their rich, nutty flavor.
- Make ahead friendly: Kheer tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
- Serving versatility: Enjoy it warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
