Authentic Nepalese Cheura (Beaten Rice) Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of beaten rice (Cheura)
1 cup of sugar
1/2 cup of shredded coconut
1/2 cup of chopped dried fruits (like raisins, dates, apricots)
2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
1/2 cup of warm milk
2 tablespoons of chopped nuts (like almonds, cashews, pistachios) for garnishing

Steps and instructions

Heat up a pan on medium heat and add the ghee.
Once the ghee has melted, add the beaten rice (Cheura) to the pan and roast it until it turns slightly golden brown. Keep stirring it constantly to avoid burning.
Add the shredded coconut to the pan and continue to roast for a couple of minutes.
Next, add the chopped dried fruits and stir well to combine them with the roasted beaten rice and coconut.
Add the sugar and cardamom powder to the pan and mix everything together until the sugar has dissolved and evenly coated the beaten rice and dried fruits.
Pour in the warm milk into the pan and stir everything together. Lower the heat and let it cook for a few minutes until the beaten rice has absorbed most of the milk.
Turn off the heat and let the Cheura mixture cool down a bit. It should still be warm to touch.
Garnish it with the chopped nuts before serving. Enjoy your Cheura while it's still warm.

Tools for making

Pan - A medium-sized pan for roasting the beaten rice and other ingredients.
Spatula - A heat-resistant spatula for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring cups - To accurately measure the beaten rice, sugar, shredded coconut, and milk.
Chopping board - For chopping the dried fruits and nuts.
Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the dried fruits and nuts.
Grater - To grate the coconut for the recipe.

Recipe variations

Instead of using regular beaten rice (Cheura), you can try using flattened rice (Poha) for a different texture.
For a healthier version, you can replace sugar with jaggery or honey.
Add a pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk to give the Cheura a fragrant and vibrant color.
You can experiment with different combinations of dried fruits and nuts like cranberries, figs, walnuts, or pecans to add more variety and flavor.
To make it more indulgent, you can melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the Cheura before serving.
For a vegan option, replace ghee with coconut oil or any other plant-based oil.
If you prefer a spiced version, you can add a pinch of cinnamon powder or a dash of nutmeg to the Cheura mixture.
You can also add some roasted sesame seeds or flaxseeds to the Cheura for added crunch and nutritional value.
To make it more festive, you can incorporate edible silver or gold leaf as a garnish.

Recipe overview

This delightful Cheura recipe is a traditional sweet dish from Nepal, made with beaten rice, sugar, ghee, and a variety of dried fruits and nuts. Known for its crunchy texture and perfect balance of sweetness, this treat is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Roasting the beaten rice (Cheura) in ghee gives it a wonderful aroma and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the dried fruits and coconut. The final touch of warm milk makes this dish irresistibly soft and moist. Whether you're preparing this for a festive occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this Cheura recipe will surely impress your taste buds. Enjoy!

Common questions

Can I use any type of beaten rice for this recipe? You can use any type of beaten rice (Cheura) for this recipe, but the thicker variety works best as it gives a nice texture to the dish.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener alternative.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture? Absolutely! You can add additional ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of the Cheura.
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can make the Cheura in advance and store it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for a couple of days.
Can I serve Cheura with anything else? Cheura is often enjoyed on its own as a snack or dessert. However, you can also serve it with a scoop of ice cream or yogurt for a delicious twist.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix all the ingredients together.
Pan - A non-stick pan or skillet to roast the beaten rice and other ingredients.
Spatula - A utensil used for stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan.
Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the quantities of beaten rice, sugar, and milk.
Chopper or Knife - To chop the dried fruits and nuts into small pieces.
Grater - To shred the coconut for the recipe.
Small Bowl - To soak the dried fruits in warm water if needed.
Serving Dish - A plate or shallow bowl to serve the Cheura.

Origin stories

Cheura, also known as beaten rice, is a cherished staple in the Nepalese cuisine. A unique aspect of Cheura is its versatility, as it can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, making it quite a favorite in many Nepalese households. However, the sweet version, which this recipe is particularly for, holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. It is often prepared during festivals and celebrations, notably during Tihar, the festival of lights, which is one of the most important festivals in Nepal. During Tihar, Cheura is used in a traditional dish known as "bhujia", that people share with their loved ones, symbolizing unity, love, and happiness. Serving Cheura during Tihar is said to bring good luck and prosperity, reflecting a beautiful blend of culture, tradition, and gastronomy that is truly Nepalese. This recipe is our tribute to that tradition, aiming to bring a piece of Nepal's rich culinary heritage into your home.

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.