Kesar Kheer – Saffron-infused indulgence
Main Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step to make the recipe successfully.
Prepare Rice
Wash the rice thoroughly and then mash it slightly to break the grains. Set aside.
Prepare Cardamom
Place the green cardamom pods in a mortar and pestle and mash them coarsely. Set aside.
Prepare Dry Fruits
Take the mixed dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios, cranberries) and mash them lightly. Set aside.
Roast Dry Fruits
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a kadai (pan) over medium heat. Add the mashed dry fruits and roast them for until they turn slightly golden and fragrant. Remove about half of the roasted dry fruits and set aside for garnish. Keep the remaining half in the pan.
Boil Milk
Pour 1 liter of milk into the same kadai with the remaining roasted dry fruits. Bring the milk to a boil, stirring occasionally, for about .
Add Sugar and Rice
Once the milk has boiled, add 1/2 cup of sugar and the mashed rice to the kadai. Stir well to combine. the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for , or until the rice is fully cooked and the kheer has thickened to your desired consistency.
Add Cardamom and Saffron
Add the crushed cardamom and saffron strands to the kheer. Stir well to incorporate. Cook for another .
Serve
Remove the Kesar Kheer from heat. Pour into serving bowls and garnish with the reserved roasted dry fruits and a few extra saffron strands. Serve warm or chilled.
Before You Cook
Helpful details before you startIngredient SubstitutionsMissing something? View suitable alternatives.View 3 swaps
No Ghee?
- Unsalted butter (1:1)
- Neutral oil (1:1, lacks the toasted note)
No Milk?
- Unsweetened almond / soy / oat milk (1:1)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk + 1/2 cup water (per 1 cup)
No Saffron?
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (color only, no flavor match)
- 1/2 tsp safflower threads
Variations
Simple ways to adapt this recipe.
- Add condensed milk for extra creaminess and sweetnessCustomise
- Experiment with different dry fruits
Experiment with different dry fruits like dates or figs.
- Add a touch of roseCustomise
Add a touch of rose water or kewra essence for a floral aroma.
Helpful Tips
Small details that can improve the final result.
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