Rice Kheer recipe

In Indian cuisine, the rice kheer recipe—a creamy, delicious dessert—has a special place. A popular dessert for festivals and special events, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make and tastes even better than it looks. This tutorial will assist you in mastering the technique of creating the ideal rice kheer, regardless of your level of culinary experience.

Ingredients Needed for the Rice Kheer Recipe 

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Basic Ingredients:
    • 1/2 cup basmati rice
    • 1 liter full-fat milk
    • 1/2 cup sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
    • A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
    • 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
    • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • Optional Add-ons for Extra Flavor:
    • Rose water
    • Coconut powder
    • Chopped dry fruits

Preparing the Rice

  1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse 1/2 cup of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This keeps the kheer from getting overly sticky and aids in the removal of extra starch.
  2. Soak the Rice: Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the rice cooks faster and more evenly.

Cooking the Rice in Milk

  1. Boil the milk: Heat one liter of full-fat milk to a boil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  2. Add the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook in the milk. Stir frequently to avoid sticking or burning.
  3. Cook Until Tender: Continue to cook until the rice is tender and the milk has reduced, becoming thick and creamy. This process usually takes about 30–40 minutes.

Rice Kheer

Sweetening the Kheer

  1. Add Sugar: Once the rice is cooked and the milk has thickened, add 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
  2. Flavor with Cardamom: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder for a fragrant touch. At this point, you can also add a pinch of saffron strands that have been soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk.

Final Touches

  1. Add Nuts and Raisins: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts and 2 tablespoons of raisins. This adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the kheer.
  2. Simmer for a Few More Minutes: Let the kheer simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Keep stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
  3. Cool Down: Remove the kheer from heat and let it cool. It will thicken further as it cools.

Choosing the Right Rice

  • Basmati Rice: Always opt for good quality basmati rice for its fragrance and texture. Short-grain rice can also be used but may result in a different texture.

The Importance of Milk Quality

  • Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat milk yields a richer and creamier kheer. Skimmed milk can be used, but the result will be less indulgent.

Ideal Sweetness Level

  • Balance: Adjust the sugar according to your taste. Start with 1/2 cup and add more if desired, but be cautious to avoid over-sweetening.

Achieving Perfect Consistency

  • Stirring: Regular stirring ensures even cooking and prevents the milk from burning. Aim for a thick, pudding-like consistency.

Overcooking the Rice: Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Texture: Avoid cooking the rice until it disintegrates. The grains should be soft but intact.

Burning the Milk

  • Constant Stirring: Milk can burn easily, especially on high heat. Stir regularly and keep the heat low.

Over-Sweetening

  • Taste Test: Add sugar gradually and taste frequently to get the desired sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Flavor Variations

  • Add Saffron: Soak a few strands of saffron in warm milk and add it during the final stages of cooking for a luxurious touch.

Rose-Flavored Rice Kheer

  • Rose Water: Add a few drops of rose water towards the end for a fragrant, floral twist.

Coconut Rice Kheer

  • Coconut Milk: Substitute part of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
Serving Suggestions
  • Versatile Dessert: Rice kheer can be served hot or cold. Chilled kheer is especially refreshing during the summer months.
  • Nuts and Fruits: Garnish with chopped nuts, saffron strands, or fresh fruits like mango or banana for added texture and flavor.

Rice Kheer recipe

Conclusion: Rice Kheer Recipe

Rice kheer is rich in calcium from milk and provides a good source of energy due to its rice and sugar content. Rice kheer is a staple during festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Janmashtami, symbolizing prosperity and sweetness. Different Preparations: Kheer is known by various names in India, including “Payesh” in Bengali and “Payasam” in South India. A typical serving of rice kheer (about 150 grams) contains approximately 250–300 calories, with carbs, fats, and proteins well-balanced.