Coconut Kheer
Coconut Kheer is a rich, flavorful, and aromatic Indian dessert that combines the goodness of coconut with the creaminess of milk. This traditional sweet dish is often prepared during festivals, special occasions, or simply as a comforting treat to end a meal. Its delightful taste and smooth texture make it a favorite among coconut lovers.
In this recipe, coconut milk, fresh coconut, and milk come together to create a luscious, indulgent dessert that is both satisfying and nourishing. If you’re looking for a delicious way to incorporate coconut into your cooking, Coconut Kheer is an excellent choice.
Ingredients for Coconut Kheer
To make Coconut Kheer, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 2 cups of full-fat milk
- 1 cup of coconut milk (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup of grated fresh coconut (or desiccated coconut)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- 8-10 cashews
- 8-10 almonds
- 8-10 pistachios (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
- Saffron strands (optional)
- A pinch of rose water or kewra water (optional, for fragrance)
Instructions to Prepare Coconut Kheer
Step 1: Roast the Nuts
Start by heating a tablespoon of ghee in a small pan. Add the cashews, almonds, and pistachios. Lightly roast them until golden brown. Set the roasted nuts aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the soaked basmati rice along with two cups of milk. Cook the rice over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Let it cook for about 10–15 minutes or until the rice becomes soft and starts to break down. This will give your kheer a creamy consistency.
Step 3: Add the Coconut Milk and Fresh Coconut
Once the rice is cooked, pour in the coconut milk and add the grated fresh coconut. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-7 minutes so that the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Sweeten the Kheer
Add sugar to the pan and stir it in until it dissolves completely. You can adjust the sweetness based on your personal preference. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few more minutes, ensuring that the rice absorbs the sugar and coconut flavors.
Step 5: Flavor with Cardamom and Optional Ingredients
Once the kheer has thickened to your desired consistency, add cardamom powder for a fragrant, spicy note. If you like, you can also add a pinch of saffron strands for a beautiful golden color and a unique flavor. For an extra floral touch, add a few drops of rose or kewra water.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the kheer from the heat and transfer it to serving bowls. Garnish with the roasted nuts that you set aside earlier. You can also add a few more strands of saffron or some fresh coconut shavings on top for added texture.
Coconut Kheer can be enjoyed both warm or chilled, depending on your preference. If you prefer a thicker kheer, allow it to cool down and refrigerate it for a couple of hours before serving.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Kheer
- Use full-fat milk for a rich, creamy texture. You can also opt for plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk for a vegan version of the kheer.
- Adjust the sweetness based on the type of coconut milk and coconut you’re using. Fresh coconut tends to be less sweet than desiccated coconut, so you might need to increase the sugar a little.
- For extra flavor, try adding a few tablespoons of condensed milk or evaporated milk for a richer kheer.
Coconut Kheer is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of coconut and traditional Indian flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or just craving something sweet, this kheer is a delicious choice. Simple to make yet packed with flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
