Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert that is made using milk, sugar, and rice. It is a delicacy that is often prepared during festivals and special occasions. While the traditional method of making kheer involves using uncooked rice, there is also a simple and delicious recipe that uses cooked rice. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making kheer with cooked rice, step by step.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin making kheer, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– 1 cup of cooked rice
– 1 liter of full-fat milk
– 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust according to your taste)
– A pinch of saffron strands
– 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios)
– 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking the rice. You can use any type of rice, but basmati rice works particularly well for this recipe. Cook the rice as you normally would, using the desired amount of water. Once the rice is cooked, set it aside and allow it to cool completely.
Infuse the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the milk and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once the milk starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Now, add the saffron strands to the simmering milk. The saffron will infuse the milk with a beautiful golden color and a distinct aroma. Let the milk simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the saffron flavors to meld into the milk.
Add Sweetness
After infusing the milk with saffron, it’s time to sweeten the kheer. Add the sugar to the milk and stir well to dissolve it completely. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference for sweetness. Remember that the kheer will also have a natural sweetness from the cooked rice, so be mindful of the overall taste.
Combine the Rice and Milk
Once the sugar has dissolved, add the cooked rice to the milk. Stir gently to combine the rice with the sweetened milk. The rice will absorb the milk and soften further as the kheer cooks. Allow the kheer to simmer on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Flavor and Texture
As the kheer simmers, it is time to add additional flavors and textures. Sprinkle in the cardamom powder, which will impart a delightful aroma to the kheer. Next, add the chopped nuts of your choice. Traditionally, almonds, cashews, and pistachios are used, but you can also experiment with other nuts or dried fruits.
Stir the kheer gently to distribute the flavors and ensure that the nuts are evenly distributed. Allow the kheer to cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer a thick and creamy kheer, while others enjoy it with a lighter consistency.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the kheer has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. You can serve the kheer warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
To serve, ladle the kheer into individual bowls or dessert cups. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a few saffron strands. The kheer is now ready to be enjoyed!
Conclusion
Making kheer with cooked rice is a simple and delicious alternative to the traditional recipe. It is a great way to use up leftover rice and create a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this kheer will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!