Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Boil Milk

   Pour 1.5 liters of milk into a large pot and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the milk to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom or overflowing.

2. 2.Prepare Dry Fruits

   In a separate bowl, gather the dry fruits: 2 tablespoons of almonds, 2 tablespoons of cashews, 2 tablespoons of raisins, and 2 tablespoons of chopped dried coconut. Chop the almonds and cashews into smaller pieces.

3. 3.Add Spices to Milk

   Once the milk begins to boil, add 4 green cardamom pods, 2 bay leaves, and 1 dried red berry (if using) to the pot. Stir the milk and spices together.

4. 4.Add Dry Fruits

   Carefully add the prepared chopped almonds, cashews, raisins, and dried coconut to the boiling milk. Stir well to incorporate them.

5. 5.Prepare and Add Rice

   Wash 1/2 cup of rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk mixture in the pot. Stir continuously for the first few minutes to prevent the rice from clumping or sticking to the bottom.

6. 6.Cook Kheer

   Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook the kheer, stirring frequently, for about 20-30 minutes. Cook until the rice is fully tender and the kheer has thickened to your desired creamy consistency.

7. 7.Add Sugar

   Once the kheer has thickened and the rice is cooked, add 3/4 cup of sugar (or adjust to your preferred sweetness). Stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved into the kheer.

8. 8.Serve Kheer

   Remove the kheer from the heat. It can be served hot or chilled. Garnish with additional chopped dry fruits if desired.