Introduction
Indulge in the aromatic flavors of cardamom and saffron infused into creamy, comforting rice pudding with this Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer. This dessert, rich in tradition and taste, offers a delightful sweetness complemented by the warm notes of spices.
For Whom and Why It’s Great
Perfect for those who appreciate the delicacy of aromatic spices in a comforting dessert, Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer caters to anyone seeking a taste of traditional Indian sweets. Ideal for celebrations, festive occasions, or as a delightful after-dinner treat.
Ingredients
Let’s gather the ingredients to create this fragrant rice kheer:
- 1/2 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 4-5 green cardamom pods (crushed or lightly pounded)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or cashews)
- 1 tablespoon golden raisins (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional, for extra fragrance)
- Pinch of saffron strands for garnish (optional)
Directions
Let’s embark on creating this aromatic Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer:
- Rinsing and Soaking Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 20-30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Infusing Saffron: In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the milk with saffron flavor and color.
- Cooking the Rice: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the remaining whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling milk. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Simmering and Thickening: Lower the heat and let the rice cook in the milk, stirring intermittently. Allow it to simmer until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. This process may take approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Sweetening the Kheer: Add the granulated sugar to the simmering rice and milk mixture. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Adding Aromatics: Once the kheer reaches the desired consistency, add the crushed cardamom pods, soaked saffron milk (along with the saffron threads), chopped nuts, and golden raisins (if using). Mix gently to incorporate the flavors.
- Final Touch (Optional): For an extra touch of fragrance, add the rose water to the kheer and gently stir.
- Chilling and Garnishing: Allow the Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate it for a few hours until it’s thoroughly chilled. Garnish with a few strands of saffron before serving if desired.
Kitchen Equipment
To create this aromatic kheer, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small bowl for saffron soaking
- Serving bowls or glasses
Storage
Store any leftover Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 2-3 days. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fragrant kheer chilled in individual bowls or glasses. It’s a perfect dessert to conclude a meal or as a delightful treat during festive gatherings.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to enhance the texture and flavor profile. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
Conclusion
Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful journey with the Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer—a traditional Indian dessert that captivates the senses with its fragrant spices and creamy richness. Share this recipe with friends and family to savor the delight of this aromatic kheer. Embrace the comforting sweetness and fragrant essence in every spoonful of this Cardamom Saffron Rice Kheer!