Ayurvedic Rice Pudding (Kheer)
Ayurvedic Rice Pudding, also known as Kheer, that incorporates Ayurvedic principles and ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups milk (you can use cow’s milk or a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup jaggery or raw sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of raisins
- A handful of chopped almonds
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- A few crushed pistachios for garnishing (optional)
Instructions:
- Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Drain the water before using.
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or a pot over medium heat.
- Add the soaked and drained basmati rice to the pan and sauté it for a couple of minutes until it turns slightly golden.
- Pour in the milk and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer the rice in milk until it becomes soft and creamy. This process may take around 30-40 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add jaggery or raw sugar to the rice and milk mixture. Stir well until the sweetener dissolves completely.
- Add cardamom powder, raisins, chopped almonds, saffron strands (if using), and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Taste the kheer and adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more jaggery or sugar if needed.
- Once the rice pudding reaches a desired consistency and the rice is fully cooked, turn off the heat.
- Allow the kheer to cool for a few minutes. It will thicken further as it cools down.
- Serve the Ayurvedic rice pudding warm or chilled, garnished with crushed pistachios if desired.
Note: Remember to adjust the ingredients and proportions based on your taste preferences and dietary needs. This recipe is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional advice or medical recommendations. Please consult with Ayur Healthcare or a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance.
