Kheeranand Recipe

Jennifer Segal

15 May, 2024

Discover the perfect Kheeranand recipe – a symphony of rice, milk, and exotic spices. Indulge in this heavenly Indian dessert with our step-by-step guide.

Kheeranand

Publisher: Crisp Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 250 calories

Kheeranand, a cherished Indian dessert, encapsulates the essence of indulgence in every spoonful. This delectable rice pudding, also known simply as Kheer, is a time-honored dish that has graced countless celebrations and family gatherings.

The preparation involves simmering fragrant basmati rice in rich, full-fat milk until it transforms into a luscious and creamy consistency.

To embark on the journey of crafting Kheeranand, one begins by sautéing soaked basmati rice in ghee, enhancing its aromatic profile. The rice then luxuriates in a simmering bath of milk, gradually absorbing its richness. The addition of sugar brings a perfect balance of sweetness, while an array of chopped nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and saffron strands elevate the flavor profile, adding texture and warmth to the dessert.

The beauty of Kheeranand lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. Whether served warm on a chilly evening or chilled to perfection on a hot day, this dessert adapts to the preferences of the moment. Its essence reflects the heart of Indian cuisine, where culinary traditions and flavors meld seamlessly to create a dish that transcends time.

As you savor each spoonful of Kheeranand, you partake in a culinary journey steeped in tradition and enriched by the love and care poured into its creation. It stands as a testament to the culinary heritage that continues to bring families and friends together, celebrating the sweetness of life.

Recipe

Dive into the indulgent world of Kheeranand—a heavenly blend of creamy rice, aromatic spices, and luscious nuts. Unlock the secrets of this irresistible Indian dessert delight!

Ingredients

1/2 cup basmati rice
1 liter full-fat milk
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

Method Instructions

Rinse the rice under running water until the water runs clear.
Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the soaked and drained rice. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the rice turns aromatic.
Pour in the milk and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook in the simmering milk. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens (usually after 20-25 minutes), add sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
Add chopped nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and saffron strands. Mix thoroughly.
Continue to cook on low heat until the kheer reaches your desired consistency. Keep in mind that it will thicken further as it cools.
Turn off the heat and let it cool for a bit before serving.
You can serve Kheeranand warm or chilled, as per your preference.
Enjoy your homemade Kheeranand!

Recipe Video

Kheeranand

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Recipe Tags: Kheeranand, Kheeranand Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving Kheeranand is a delightful experience that enhances the enjoyment of this rich and creamy dessert. Here's a simple guide on how to serve Kheeranand:

Warm: Serve Kheeranand warm for a comforting and indulgent experience. This is particularly inviting during colder seasons.
Chilled: And for a refreshing and cool treat, refrigerate the Kheeranand before serving, especially on warmer days.
Presentation: Spoon the Kheeranand into individual serving bowls or small dessert cups.
Garnish: Optionally, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) and a few strands of saffron for a visually appealing touch.
Serve with Love: Kheeranand is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. Serve it with warmth and love, making it a shared experience for family and friends.
Accompaniments: Kheeranand can be enjoyed on its own, or you can pair it with traditional Indian sweets like jalebi or serve alongside a plate of warm gulab jamun for a diverse dessert spread.
Individual Preferences: Allow individuals to customize their servings by providing extra nuts or sugar on the side for those who prefer a bit more crunch or sweetness.

Tips

Rinse Basmati Rice Thoroughly: Ensure to rinse the basmati rice thoroughly before soaking to remove excess starch. This helps in achieving a non-sticky and fluffy texture.
Soak Rice for Optimal Texture: Allowing the rice to soak for about 30 minutes not only aids in faster cooking but also contributes to a smoother texture in the final dish.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality basmati rice, full-fat milk, and fresh nuts for the best flavor and texture in your Kheeranand.
Monitor Milk Consistently: Keep a close eye on the milk while simmering to avoid scorching or burning. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Adjust Sugar to Taste: Sweetness preferences can vary, so feel free to adjust the sugar quantity according to your taste. Add it gradually and taste as you go.
Experiment with Nuts: While the recipe traditionally includes almonds, cashews, and pistachios, don't hesitate to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or add a handful of desiccated coconut for a unique twist.
Enhance Flavor with Cardamom: Freshly ground cardamom powder elevates the flavor profile. Consider crushing cardamom seeds just before adding them for a more intense aroma.
Include Saffron for Aesthetic Appeal: If available, add a pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk. This not only imparts a subtle flavor but also lends a beautiful golden hue to the Kheeranand.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the Kheeranand to cool for a bit before serving to let it thicken further. It can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Garnish Creatively: Have fun with the garnishes. Sprinkle a few rose petals or edible silver leaf for a touch of elegance.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Kheeranand tends to thicken as it cools, so you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit of milk when reheating.

Ingredient Substitutes

While certain ingredients in the Kheeranand recipe contribute to its traditional flavor, here are some potential substitutes if you need alternatives:

Basmati Rice: Substitute with any other long-grain rice for a similar texture.
Full-Fat Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can use reduced-fat milk for a lighter version.
Sugar: Replace with jaggery or a sugar substitute if you prefer a different sweetness level.
Nuts: Customize the nut mix based on your preferences. Consider using different nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.
Raisins: Swap with dried cranberries, currants, or chopped dates for a different dried fruit element.
Cardamom Powder: Use ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an alternative spice profile.
Saffron: If saffron is unavailable, a pinch of turmeric can add a subtle golden color, but be cautious as it has a stronger flavor.
Ghee: Substitute with unsalted butter or a neutral oil for a vegetarian option.