A Taste Of India: Step-By-Step Sabudana Kheer Recipe

Indulging in traditional dessert s is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it's about connecting with culture, memories, and flavors that transport you to another world. One such delightful dessert from Indian cuisine is Sabudana Kheer . This creamy, comforting pudding-like dish is not just reserved for fasting days; it's a treat enjoyed year-round. Here's how you can make this delectable Sabudana Kheer right in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls): 1 cup
Milk: 1 liter
Sugar: 1/2 to 3/4 cup (adjust according to taste)
Cardamom Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Saffron Strands: a pinch (optional)
Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios): 2 tablespoons
Ghee (Clarified Butter): 1 tablespoon
Raisins: 1 tablespoon (optional)

Instructions:

Preparation: Rinse the sabudana under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the sabudana pearls in enough water to cover them completely for at least 3-4 hours or overnight. This will soften the pearls and make them ready for cooking.

Boil the Milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Cook Sabudana: Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the soaked sabudana pearls. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sabudana pearls become transparent, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes.

Add Sugar: Once the sabudana pearls are cooked, add sugar according to your taste preferences. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.

Add Flavorings: Sprinkle in the cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using). These ingredients add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the kheer. Mix well.

Sauté Nuts: In a separate small pan, heat ghee over low heat. Add chopped nuts and raisins (if using) and sauté until the nuts turn golden brown and the raisins plump up. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the kheer.

Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed nuts and raisins to the sabudana kheer mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.

Serve: Remove the kheer from the heat and let it cool for a while. You can serve it warm or chilled, according to your preference. Garnish with a few more chopped nuts on top before serving.

Tips:

If you prefer a thinner consistency for your kheer, you can add more milk accordingly.

Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Some prefer their kheer to be mildly sweet, while others enjoy it sweeter.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as shredded coconut, rose water, or even a hint of nutmeg.

Sabudana kheer can be served as a dessert or even as a snack. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Sabudana Kheer is a quintessential Indian dessert that is loved by people of all ages. Its creamy texture, combined with the subtle flavors of cardamom and saffron, makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you're craving something sweet or looking for a comforting dessert to end your meal, this easy-to-make Sabudana Kheer recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So why not try making it at home and treat yourself to a bowl of this deliciousness today?