Recipes for Millet Kheer, a creamy and aromatic millet pudding that’s perfect for a healthier dessert option.
Millet Kheer (Millet Pudding) Recipe
About Millet Kheer:
Millet Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made with nutritious millet, milk, and a hint of cardamom, giving it a rich, creamy flavor. Millets are packed with fiber, iron, and essential nutrients, making this dish both satisfying and healthy. Using jaggery as a sweetener further enhances its health benefits, but sugar can be substituted if preferred.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup millet: Choose small-grained varieties like foxtail, barnyard, or little millet, as they cook faster and give a smooth texture to the kheer.
4 cups milk: Use full-fat milk for a richer taste, or plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) for a vegan version.
1/4 cup jaggery or sugar: Adjust sweetness based on your preference. Jaggery has a more complex, caramel-like flavor that complements the spices.
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder: Adds a warm, aromatic note.
1-2 tablespoons chopped nuts: Almonds, cashews, and pistachios add texture and a nutty flavor.
1 tablespoon raisins (optional): Adds a natural sweetness and soft texture.
1 tablespoon ghee: This is optional but enhances the richness. Use coconut oil for a vegan version.
Preparation:
1. Rinse and Soak the Millet:
Start by washing the millet thoroughly in water, rubbing it gently to remove any dust or debris.
After rinsing, soak the millet in water for 15–20 minutes. Soaking softens the grains and helps them cook evenly, reducing cooking time.
2. Cook the Millet:
Drain the millet and add it to a saucepan with about 1 cup of water.
Cook the millet on medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
After about 10 minutes, the millet should soften and become fluffy. Alternatively, you can pressure cook it for 1-2 whistles, which speeds up the process.
3. Add the Milk:
Once the millet is fully cooked, pour in the milk. Stir well to combine.
Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
As it cooks, the milk will thicken, and the millet will start blending with it to create a creamy texture.
4. Add Sweetener:
Once the kheer has thickened to your liking, add jaggery or sugar and stir well.
If using jaggery, turn off the heat before adding it to prevent curdling.
Stir until the jaggery or sugar is fully dissolved. Taste the kheer and adjust the sweetness if needed.
5. Add Flavorings:
Sprinkle in the cardamom powder and mix well. Cardamom gives the kheer a beautiful aroma that’s both warming and inviting.
If desired, you can add a few strands of saffron at this point for a golden hue and enhanced flavor.
6. Prepare Garnish:
In a small pan, heat the ghee (or coconut oil for a vegan option).
Fry the chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, and pistachios) until they are golden brown, followed by the raisins until they puff up. This step adds richness and a delightful crunch to the kheer.
7. Serve:
Pour the ghee-fried nuts and raisins over the kheer and mix lightly.
Serve the millet kheer warm for a cozy dessert or chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours if you prefer a cooler treat.
Tips and Variations:
For a Thicker Kheer:
Simmer the milk a bit longer until it reaches a thick, custard-like consistency.
Coconut Milk Option:
Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Add it towards the end of cooking for extra creaminess and a unique flavor.
Sweetness:
Adjust the sweetness based on your preference. You can add a bit more jaggery or sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
Nutritional Benefits:
Millet kheer is a great alternative to traditional rice pudding because millets are high in fiber, iron, and B-vitamins. Using jaggery instead of sugar also makes it a healthier choice, as jaggery is rich in minerals like iron and magnesium.
Enjoy this delicious, wholesome dessert that not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides essential nutrients and warmth!
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