Are you craving a comforting, creamy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Sevai Kheer, a delightful Indian sweet made with vermicelli noodles, milk, and sugar. This simple yet elegant dessert is perfect for a warm evening, a festive occasion, or any time you need a little sweetness in your life. It's one of those incredibly satisfying healthy meals that’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to impress! Let's dive into this delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup thin vermicelli (sevai)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) – optional, but adds richness
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Vermicelli
Rinse the vermicelli noodles under cold water to remove any excess starch. Set aside.
Step 2: Roasting the Nuts and Raisins (Optional)
In a small pan, lightly toast the chopped nuts and raisins over medium heat until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside. This step adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavour.
Step 3: Cooking the Vermicelli
Heat the ghee (if using) in a heavy-bottomed pan or pot over medium heat. Add the rinsed vermicelli and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Simmering the Kheer
Pour the milk into the pan with the vermicelli. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vermicelli is cooked through and soft and the milk has slightly reduced.
Step 5: Sweetening and Flavoring
Stir in the sugar and cardamom powder. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and the kheer thickens slightly to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the toasted nuts and raisins. Let the kheer cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sevai Kheer:
- Use good quality milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess.
- Don't overcook the vermicelli: Overcooked vermicelli will become mushy.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Add more or less sugar depending on your preference.
- Add a pinch of saffron: For an extra touch of flavour and colour, you can add a pinch of saffron strands to the milk while simmering.
- Chill before serving: The kheer tastes even better when chilled.
Variations:
- Add fruits: Include chopped mango, banana, or other fruits for added flavour and texture.
- Use different nuts: Experiment with other nuts like peanuts or pecans.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the milk with your favourite plant-based milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 (This will vary based on the ingredients and portion size). This makes it a reasonably healthy dessert option compared to some richer options. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities you've used.
This easy recipe for Sevai Kheer is a wonderful way to end any meal. Its creamy texture, delightful nutty flavour and subtle cardamom aroma make it a truly delicious and memorable treat. Enjoy!