Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Coconut

   Take half a fresh coconut. Carefully remove the brown skin from the coconut pieces using a knife. This step ensures the payasam has a white color.

2. 2.Grind the Coconut

   Cut the skinned coconut into small, rough pieces. Add them to a mixer grinder. Grind for about two quick turns until it's coarsely ground, resembling a flower-like texture, not a fine paste.

3. 3.Boil the Milk

   Pour 1/2 liter of milk into a pot and bring it to a rolling boil.

4. 4.Cook Coconut in Milk

   Once the milk is boiling, add the coarsely ground coconut to the milk. Stir well and cook on low flame for 3 minutes, allowing the coconut to cook thoroughly in the milk for enhanced flavor.

5. 5.Add Nuts and Sweetener

   After 3 minutes, add the chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins to the milk mixture. Then, add 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar and allow the nuts to cook slightly in the milk.

6. 6.Flavor with Cardamom

   Add 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder for aroma and flavor.

7. 7.Simmer and Finish

   Continue to simmer the payasam for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all ingredients are well combined and the flavors meld.

8. 8.Serve and Garnish

   Pour the hot coconut payasam into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped pistachios and a few rose petals before serving.