Indian Festivals are incomplete without Kheer. Dear food enthusiasts, today I bring you a recipe that embodies the true essence of festivities, an indulgence that’s perfect for special occasions like Diwali and other Indian festivals – my Rose-Flavored Kheer. As someone who loves creating flavorful dishes, I’ve discovered that this recipe is a perfect match for this festive season.
A Timeless Classic: Kheer
To all the people, who have are new to Indian cuisine, Kheer, often referred to as rice pudding, it holds a special place in Indian culture. It’s a dessert that transcends generations, offering both comfort and celebration. While the classic kheer is a beloved treat in itself, infusing it with the flavor of roses takes it to a whole new level.
Diwali and other Indian festivals are a time for families to come together, for homes to be decorated with lights and colors, and for delicious feasts to be shared. I specifically remember enjoying my bowl of kheer in our special occasions. In some communities, people make kheer to celebrate their birthday as well. This Rose-Flavored Kheer is a perfect addition to your festive spread, whether you’re celebrating Diwali or any other joyous occasion, Its sweat and creamy taste will make you crave Kheer more and more.
Ingredients for Rose-flavored Kheer
My Rose-Flavored Kheer starts with the rice, simmered in a pool of creamy milk , which gives it an unique texture. But what truly sets it apart is the aroma of roses. A touch of rose or rose water makes the kheer extra special. The fragrance of roses in every spoonful adds a sense of enchantment to your experience.
In any Indian dessert, a subtle touch of spice is essential to elevate the flavors. Crushed cardamom pods or cardamom powder add a warm and aromatic touch to this kheer. As you indulge, the cardamom seeds release their fragrant essence.
To complete this culinary masterpiece, garnishing plays an important role. A handful of slivered almonds enhances the visual appeal of your Rose-Flavored Kheer. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference. It also adds an extra layer of crunch. Additionally, edible rose petals serve as a fragrant and beautiful garnish that elevates the presentation of your dessert.
How to Make Rose-Flavored Kheer
Begin by washing the rice and letting it soak, setting it aside for later use. Make sure to ensures the rice is clean and ready to absorb the flavors..
Take a heavy-bottomed pan and pour in the milk. Place it over medium-low heat. Stir the milk continuously until it comes to a gentle boil. It makes the creamy base for the kheer.
Once the milk has come to a gentle boil, add the sugar and mix it thoroughly. Ensure that the sugar is completely dissolved and incorporated into the milk. This sweet infusion is an essential part of the desert.
Add the strained rice to the sweetened milk. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The rice will absorb the sweetness of the milk as it cooks.
After approximately 15 minutes, you’ll notice that the rice has cooked. Use a masher to break and mush the rice. This mushy rice thickens the kheer, this is the main texture you need. The rice becomes soft and creamy.
Now, it’s time to add the kheer’s Fragrance. Add the smashed cardamom pods (lightly crushed to release their flavor) and rose essence. Stir everything together and soon you will smell the beautiful aroma of your kheer.
Continue to stir and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the kheer to reach the desired consistency. At this point, add in half of the slivered almonds if you’re using them. Turn off the heat and let the kheer sit for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the kheer to set and develop its rich taste.
Your Rose-Flavored Kheer is now ready to be enjoyed. It can be served either hot or cold, depending on your preference. Garnish it with the remaining slivered almonds to add an extra layer of texture and visual appeal. The kheer is a delightful treat that can be savored at any time of day.
Explore More Diwali Recipes!
Rose-Flavored Kheer
Ingredients
- ½ cup Rice
- ¼ cup Sugar
- 5-6 cups Milk
- 2-3 Cardamon Pods Crushed, Sub for powder
- 1 tsp Rose Essence or Rose Water Double for stronger flavor
- Handful of Slivered Almonds
- 1 tbsp Edible rose petals optional for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and soak rice, set aside
- To a heavy bottom pan, add milk and place on medium-low heat. Stir continously till it reaches 1 boil
- Add in sugar and mix well. Make sure it is completely dissolved and incorporated
- Add in the strained rice. Keep stirring occasionaly to make sure it doesn't stick.
- After 15 mins you will notice the rice is cooked. Take a masher and mash the rice to make sure its broken and mushy, this step thickens the kheer as well
- Next, add in the smashed cardamon pods (smash lightly with a mallet to release the flavor) and rose essence. Mix well
- Keep stirring and cook for another 5-7 mins. Add in half the slivered almonds(if using). Turn off the gas and let sit for 10 mins
- Serve it hot or cold with remaining slivered almonds as garnish. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Kheer holds a very special place in Indian festivals. It holds parts of our childhood and special memory with our loved ones. This Diwali, celebrate this time of togetherness with this Rose flavored Kheer. A perfect gift for your loved ones. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this Rose-Flavored Kheer is sure to delight your taste buds.
So, Enjoy your spoon full of happiness and love, while keeping an eye on this page as I will be bringing more and more recipes for you to celebrate this season with utmost happiness.
❤️ Gurleen
