Rice Kheer with Dry Fruits
Desserts • India
How to Make Rice Kheer with Dry Fruits (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Rice Kheer with Dry Fruits, also known as chawal ki kheer, is a classic North Indian dessert revered across India for its creamy texture and aromatic flavor. Traditionally made with basmati chawal (rice), doodh (milk), and a blend of dry fruits like badam (almonds), kaju (cashews), and kishmish (raisins), this dessert holds a special place during Indian festivals such as Diwali, Eid, and Raksha Bandhan. Its subtly sweet taste, perfumed with elaichi (cardamom) and sometimes kesar (saffron), is a delightful way to end a festive meal or to serve as prasad during religious ceremonies. The origins of kheer trace back centuries, making it a staple in celebratory feasts and auspicious occasions throughout India. Its comforting, milky richness infused with the crunchy bite of dry fruits makes it appealing to all age groups. Moreover, kheer is often made in households to mark special moments, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. With its use of wholesome ingredients like rice and milk, this healthier kheer recipe offers a lighter touch by managing sugar and using minimal ghee, making it an excellent option for health-conscious dessert lovers.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 150 ml per serving))
- 1/4 cup Basmati rice (chawal, soaked for 20 minutes)
- 500 ml Low fat milk (doodh)
- 2 tablespoons Jaggery powder (gud, adjust to taste)
- 8-10 Almonds (badam, sliced)
- 6-8 Cashews (kaju, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Raisins (kishmish)
- 1/4 teaspoon Green cardamom powder (elaichi)
- a pinch Saffron strands (kesar, soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Ghee (for roasting dry fruits) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Pistachios (pista, sliced) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash and soak the basmati rice (chawal) in water for 20 minutes. Drain and keep aside.
5 minutes
Soaking rice ensures it cooks evenly and becomes softer, giving a creamy texture.
- 2
In a heavy-bottomed kadhai, bring the low-fat milk (doodh) to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5 minutes
Use a thick-bottomed vessel to prevent milk from scorching.
- 3
Add soaked rice to the boiling milk. Cook on low flame, stirring frequently, until the rice turns soft and the milk thickens (about 15 minutes).
15 minutes
Continuous stirring is key for a lump-free, creamy kheer.
- 4
In a small tadka pan, heat ghee and lightly roast almonds, cashews, and pistachios until golden. Add raisins and sauté for 30 seconds.
2 minutes
Roasting dry fruits enhances their flavor and aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Rice Kheer recipe uses jaggery as a natural sweetener, reduces ghee, and leverages the nutritional benefits of dry fruits and low-fat milk. It's a wholesome dessert for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without excess calories or refined sugar. The protein, good fats, and micronutrients make it suitable for balanced diets and for festive enjoyment without guilt.
Rice Kheer with Dry Fruits provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates from rice, high-quality protein and calcium from milk, and healthy fats from nuts. The inclusion of jaggery instead of refined sugar offers minerals like iron and potassium. Dry fruits such as almonds and cashews supply vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, supporting heart health and immunity. Using low-fat milk and minimal ghee keeps the calorie count lower while still delivering essential nutrients.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use full-fat milk if you prefer a richer, creamier texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Always add sweeteners like jaggery after cooking, off the heat, to prevent milk from curdling.
- 💡Tip 3: Stir frequently to avoid the rice sticking to the bottom and to achieve a silky consistency.
Storage & Serving
Store kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy chilled. Stir well before serving.
Best served: Lunch or Dinner
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 260.0 kcal |
