Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Rice

   Wash the rice thoroughly and then mash it slightly to break the grains. Set aside.

2. 2.Prepare Cardamom

   Place the green cardamom pods in a mortar and pestle and mash them coarsely. Set aside.

3. 3.Prepare Dry Fruits

   Take the mixed dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios, cranberries) and mash them lightly. Set aside.

4. 4.Roast Dry Fruits

   Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a kadai (pan) over medium heat. Add the mashed dry fruits and roast them for 1-2 minutes 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.

5. 5.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 3-5 minutes.

6. 6.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. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the kheer has thickened to your desired consistency.

7. 7.Add Cardamom and Saffron

   Add the crushed cardamom and saffron strands to the kheer. Stir well to incorporate. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

8. 8.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.