Kheer
Seviyan Kheer, also known as Vermicelli Kheer, is a traditional Indian dessert that is enjoyed across various festivals and celebrations. This creamy, flavorful dish is made with seviyan (vermicelli), milk, sugar, and a variety of nuts and dry fruits. Its rich and indulgent texture, coupled with the soothing flavors, makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a religious festival, or a simple treat after dinner.
Ingredients for Seviyan Kheer:
- 1 cup seviyan (vermicelli)
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 8-10 cashews, chopped
- 8-10 almonds, chopped
- 8-10 pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- A few tablespoons of raisins (optional)
- A few drops of rose water or kewra water (optional)
Instructions to Prepare Seviyan Kheer:
- Roasting the Seviyan:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the seviyan (vermicelli) to the pan and sauté them gently until they turn golden brown. This step not only enhances the flavor of the seviyan but also prevents them from becoming too soft and mushy during cooking. - Heating the Milk:
In a separate heavy pan, pour in the full-fat milk and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat once it starts boiling, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan. - Combining Seviyan and Milk:
Add the roasted seviyan into the simmering milk and mix gently. Let the mixture cook for around 10-12 minutes on low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the seviyan cooks evenly and absorbs the milk. - Adding Sugar and Flavors:
Once the seviyan has softened and absorbed some of the milk, add sugar according to your taste preference. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the cardamom powder, saffron strands (if using), and the rose or kewra water. These ingredients will infuse a lovely fragrance and depth of flavor into the kheer. - Incorporating the Dry Fruits:
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small frying pan. Add the cashews, almonds, and pistachios, and sauté them until they are lightly golden and crisp. Add these fried dry fruits to the kheer along with raisins, if you prefer. Mix well, and let the kheer cook for another 2-3 minutes. - Simmering the Kheer:
Let the kheer simmer for a few more minutes to ensure the flavors are well blended and the consistency is to your liking. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook it for a bit longer. If you like it thinner, you can add a little more milk. - Serving:
Once the Seviyan Kheer reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool down slightly. Seviyan Kheer can be served either warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a few strands of saffron before serving.
Seviyan Kheer is a heartwarming and comforting dessert that brings together the delicate flavors of milk, nuts, and aromatic spices. It’s easy to make and is a perfect way to end a festive meal. Whether served during Diwali, Eid, or any special occasion, this dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Enjoy the sweetness and richness of Seviyan Kheer, and share the love of Indian desserts with your loved ones!
