kheer

Kheer is a creamy and delicious rice pudding that is often made during festivals and special occasions in India and neighboring countries. Here's a simple recipe for making Kheer:

**Ingredients:**

- 1/2 cup Basmati rice

- 1 liter full-fat milk

- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)

- 1/4 cup raisins

- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

- 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

**Instructions:**

1. **Wash and Soak Rice:**

   - Wash the Basmati rice and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.

2. **Cook Rice:**

   - In a heavy-bottomed pan, cook the soaked rice in 2 cups of milk until the rice is soft and the milk has reduced.

3. **Add Sugar and Nuts:**

   - Add sugar, chopped nuts, raisins, cardamom powder, and saffron strands to the rice. Mix well.

4. **Simmer:**

   - Simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring frequently, until the kheer thickens. This may take about 30-40 minutes.

5. **Add Remaining Milk:**

   - Add the remaining milk gradually while stirring continuously. Continue to cook until the kheer reaches your desired consistency.

6. **Add Ghee:**

   - In a separate pan, heat ghee and lightly fry the remaining nuts. Add them to the kheer.

7. **Serve Warm or Chilled:**

   - Serve the kheer warm or chilled. You can garnish with more nuts and saffron strands before serving.

Enjoy the rich and creamy flavor of homemade kheer! It's a classic and comforting dessert.