Creamy Kheer

• •1 liter Full-Fat Milk
• •1 cup Basmati Rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• •1 cup Sugar (adjust to taste, up to 3/4 cup)
• •3 piece Green Cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
• •1 tsp Rose Water or Kewra Water (optional)
• •10 piece Almonds (blanched and sliced)
• •10 piece Pistachios (sliced)
• •1 tbsp Raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pour the full-fat milk into a heavy-bottomed pot. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring intermittently and scraping the sides to reincorporate milk solids. This begins the slow evaporation process and builds flavor.

2. 2

   Add the pre-soaked and washed Basmati rice to the gently boiling milk. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring frequently. The rice grains should soften and begin to break, releasing starch to naturally thicken the milk.

3. 3

   Once the rice is fully cooked and the milk has reduced by approximately 25-30%, add the sugar and crushed green cardamom pods. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.

4. 4

   Continue to cook on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the kheer to thicken further and the flavors to meld. In the final minutes of cooking, stir in the rose water or kewra water, if using, to preserve its delicate aroma.

5. 5

   Fold in the sliced almonds, pistachios, and raisins (if using). Turn off the heat. Remember that the kheer will thicken significantly as it cools due to starch retrogradation. It should be slightly thinner than your desired final consistency when hot.

6. 6

   Allow the kheer to cool completely to room temperature, then chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving. Serve chilled, garnished with a final sprinkle of nuts and, optionally, a few saffron strands.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Stirring frequently during the cooking process is crucial to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom and to reincorporate 'malai' (milk solids) from the sides, ensuring a creamy texture.
• 💡The kheer will thicken considerably after cooling. If it becomes too thick, you can stir in a splash of warm milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
• 💡For an extra rich kheer, consider substituting some of the sugar with condensed milk, which also adds a lovely caramel note.