Recipe for Sevai Kheer: A Delicious Indian Dessert
Sevai Kheer, also known as vermicelli kheer, is a delightful and creamy Indian dessert often prepared during festivals, celebrations, or as a special treat for loved ones. This simple yet luscious dish combines the richness of milk, the delicate texture of vermicelli (sevai), and the sweetness of sugar, enhanced by nuts and aromatic spices. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the perfect sevai kheer.
Ingredients
To make sevai kheer, you will need the following ingredients:
● 1 cup of vermicelli (sevai)
● 1 liter of full-fat milk
● 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
● 2 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
● 1/4 cup of chopped mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
● 1/4 cup of raisins
● 4-5 green cardamom pods (crushed) or 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
● A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
● 1 teaspoon of rose water (optional)
Instructions
1. Roast the Vermicelli
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Add the vermicelli and roast it until it turns golden brown. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the vermicelli and ensures it doesn’t clump together. Once roasted, set it aside.
2. Boil the Milk
In a large saucepan, bring the milk to a boil while stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook the Vermicelli
Add the roasted vermicelli to the simmering milk. Stir well and cook until the vermicelli softens and absorbs some of the milk. This should take about 10 minutes.
4. Add Sugar and Flavorings
Stir in the sugar and mix until it dissolves completely. Add crushed cardamom pods or cardamom powder for a fragrant aroma. If using saffron, soak the strands in a tablespoon of warm milk and add them to the kheer for a rich color and flavor.
5. Incorporate Nuts and Raisins
Add the chopped nuts and raisins, reserving a few for garnishing. Let the kheer simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Final Touches
Turn off the heat and add rose water if desired. This adds a subtle floral note to the dessert.
7. Serve
Garnish the sevai kheer with the reserved nuts and saffron strands. Serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Sevai kheer is a versatile dessert that can be customized with ingredients like condensed milk for added richness or seasonal fruits for a refreshing twist. Its creamy texture and delicate flavors make it a favorite for all age groups.
