By Ujjainee Roy
October 10, 2024
Samak Kheer, also known as vrat ki kheer, is a delicious and nutritious dessert made from samak rice (also called barnyard millet). It is typically enjoyed during fasting periods like Navratri, as it is light on the stomach and gluten-free. This kheer can be flavored with ingredients like saffron, cardamom, and nuts, making it a rich and aromatic treat that satisfies sweet cravings while keeping it healthy.
– 1/2 cup samak rice (barnyard millet) – 4 cups milk (or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version) – 1/4 cup sugar or jaggery (adjust to taste) – 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder – A few saffron strands (optional) – 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) – 1 tablespoon raisins – 1 tablespoon ghee or clarified butter (optional for richness)
Wash the samak rice thoroughly under running water and soak it in water for about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside. In a pan, heat ghee (if using) and lightly roast the soaked samak rice for a few minutes until it becomes fragrant
Add the milk to the pan and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and soft, stirring occasionally.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the sugar or jaggery, cardamom powder, and saffron strands (if using). Continue to cook until the sugar dissolves, and the kheer thickens to your desired consistency.
Add the chopped nuts and raisins to the kheer, allowing them to cook for a minute or two. Remove from heat and serve warm or chilled, garnished with extra nuts or saffron strands for added flavor and texture.