How To Make Kheer Rice Pudding

 How To Make Kheer Rice Pudding

Kheer, also known as rice pudding, is a classic and creamy Indian dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. Here's a simple recipe to make it:

### Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup basmati rice

- 1 liter whole milk

- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

- 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed

- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)

- 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)

- A few strands of saffron (for garnish, optional)

- Rose water or kewra water (optional, for flavor)

### Instructions:

1. **Preparation:**

   - Wash the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 15-20 minutes, then drain.

   - Crush the cardamom pods to release the seeds and fragrance.

   - If using saffron, soak it in 1-2 tablespoons of warm milk and set aside.

2. **Cooking:**

   - In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the milk over medium heat until it comes to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

   - Add the soaked and drained rice to the milk and stir well.

   - Lower the heat to medium-low and let the rice cook in the milk, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom.

   - Cook until the rice is soft and the milk has thickened to a creamy consistency, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Keep scraping the sides of the pan to incorporate the creamy bits into the kheer.

   - Add crushed cardamom pods and saffron-soaked milk (if using). Mix well.

   - Add sugar and stir until it dissolves completely. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.

   - If using, add chopped nuts and raisins. Stir well.

3. **Serve:**

   - Remove the kheer from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

   - If using, add a few drops of rose water or kewra water for enhanced flavor.

   - Garnish with a few strands of saffron.

   - Serve warm or chilled, garnished with more chopped nuts if desired.

Enjoy your creamy and aromatic Kheer - Rice Pudding!

You can adjust the consistency of the kheer by adding more milk if it becomes too thick during cooking. Additionally, feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors and nuts.