Authentic Indian Kheer - Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

Ingredients

1/4 cup Basmati Rice
4 cups whole Milk
1/2 cup Sugar
A pinch of Saffron threads
1/2 teaspoon Cardamom powder
2 tablespoons Almonds, sliced
2 tablespoons Raisins

Steps and 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 large pot, add the milk and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
When the milk starts boiling, add the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.
After about 20 minutes, when the rice is cooked and the milk has thickened, add the sugar and stir till it dissolves.
Soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm milk and then add it to the pot. The saffron will give the kheer a beautiful color and a rich aroma.
Add the cardamom powder, sliced almonds, and raisins. Stir well to combine.
Cook for another 5-10 minutes, then turn off the heat. The kheer will thicken more as it cools.
Let the kheer cool for a bit before refrigerating. Serve it chilled.

Tools for making

Large Pot - Required for boiling the milk and cooking the rice.
Spoon - To stir the kheer while it simmers and thickens.
Measuring Cup - For accurately measuring the rice, sugar, and milk.
Knife - To slice the almonds.
Refrigerator - To chill the kheer before serving.

Recipe variations

Add a teaspoon of rose water or kewra water for a floral flavor.
Replace the basmati rice with vermicelli for a different texture.
Use jaggery instead of sugar for a traditional touch.
Add a handful of chopped pistachios for added crunch.
Include a tablespoon of ghee (clarified butter) for a richer taste.
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm and fragrant twist.
Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a creamy and tropical flavor.
Include a handful of dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fruity variation.

Recipe overview

Kheer is a creamy and delicious Indian dessert made with basmati rice, milk, and sugar, flavored with aromatic spices like saffron and cardamom, and garnished with a mix of crunchy almonds and juicy raisins. This recipe takes you through step by step instructions on how to make perfect Kheer that is not overly sweet but full of flavor. Whether you are making it for a festival, celebration, or simply as a treat for your sweet tooth, it is sure to impress. Cooked slowly with love, the aroma of this dessert is simply irresistible. Enjoy it chilled for a truly delightful experience.

Common questions

Can I use any other type of rice instead of Basmati rice? No, it is recommended to use Basmati rice for its long grains and aromatic flavor, which adds to the taste of the kheer.
Can I use reduced-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk? While you can use reduced-fat or skim milk, keep in mind that using whole milk will result in a creamier and richer kheer.
What can I substitute for saffron threads? If you don't have saffron threads, you can use a few drops of rose water or a pinch of ground cardamom for flavor.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruits to the kheer? Absolutely! You can add cashews, pistachios, or any other nuts of your choice. Similarly, you can include dried fruits like dates or apricots for added texture and taste.
How long can I store the kheer? You can refrigerate the kheer for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Make sure to stir well before serving.
Can I serve the kheer warm instead of chilled? Yes, you can serve it warm if you prefer. However, traditionally kheer is served chilled.

Serving dishes and utensils

Saucepan - A large pot for boiling and simmering the milk and rice.
Wooden spoon - For stirring the kheer while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Measuring cups - To accurately measure the rice, sugar, and milk.
Measuring spoons - To measure the saffron, cardamom powder, and other spices.
Knife - To slice the almonds.
Refrigerator - To chill the kheer before serving.

Origin stories

Kheer is a dessert that's deeply ingrained in the cuisine, culture, and history of the Indian subcontinent. It is said to have been a part of the Indian culture since ancient times, with mentions of a dish similar to kheer found in Ayurvedic texts. The dish was made with rice, milk, and sugar, which were regarded as auspicious ingredients, and was often used as an offering to the Gods during religious ceremonies. Over time, with the influence of Persian and Mughal cuisines, additional ingredients like saffron, almonds, and cardamom were incorporated, giving us the rich and creamy kheer that we know and love today. The beauty of kheer lies in its simplicity and versatility - it can be made with different grains, adorned with various nuts, and flavored with a multitude of spices, making it a dessert that's enjoyed across the diverse regions of India.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.