Ingredients
Main Ingredients | मुख्य सामग्री:
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चावल | Rice (Basmati) - 1/2 cup
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फुल क्रीम दूध | Full-Cream Milk - 4 cups
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गुड़ | Jaggery (grated or chunks) - 1/2 cup
Flavorings and Garnish | स्वाद और सजावट:
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इलायची पाउडर | Cardamom Powder - 1/4 teaspoon
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केसर | Saffron (optional) - A pinch
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कटे हुए मेवे | Chopped Nuts (Cashews, Almonds, Pistachios) for garnish
Directions
Preparing the Rice (चावल तैयार करें)
Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Rice and Milk (चावल और दूध पकाएं):
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan, bring the full-cream milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
Once the milk boils, reduce the heat to low and add the soaked rice.
Cook the rice in the milk, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the milk reduces slightly. This should take about 20 minutes.
Adding Jaggery and Flavorings (गुड़ और मसाले डालें):
Mix in cardamom powder
Add the grated or chunked jaggery to the kheer and stir until fully dissolved.
Garnishing and Serving (सजाएं और परोसें):
Transfer the Gur Ki Kheer to serving bowl
Garnish with chopped nuts like cashews, almonds, or pistachios for a festive touch.
Serve warm for a cozy dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat.
Recipe Note
Tips for Making Perfect Gur Ki Kheer
- Use Good-Quality Jaggery: Opt for organic jaggery to enhance the flavor and avoid impurities.
- Prevent Curdling: Always cool the milk slightly before adding jaggery, as the acids in jaggery can curdle hot milk.
- Stir Often: Regular stirring while cooking the rice ensures it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Enhance with Saffron and Nuts: For a richer version, soak saffron strands in warm milk and garnish with nuts.
Cultural Significance
Gur Ki Kheer is a cherished dessert across India, prepared during festivals like Makar Sankranti, Diwali, and Purnima. The use of jaggery, an unrefined sugar, not only lends a deep, earthy sweetness but also symbolizes purity and prosperity in Indian traditions. This dessert is often associated with harvest celebrations, where jaggery and rice, both seasonal staples, are used to create this nourishing dish. With its roots in simplicity and health-conscious cooking, Gur Ki Kheer is a timeless dessert that continues to evoke warmth and joy.
