Kheer (Bengali sweets)

Taler Kheer

Kheer is a traditional Bengali sweet dish, known for its rich and creamy texture. It is a type of pudding made from either rice, wheat, or vermicelli cooked with milk and sweetened with sugar. Often flavored with cardamom, saffron, and garnished with a variety of nuts such as almonds, pistachios, and cashews, Kheer holds a special place in the hearts of those who savor Indian cuisine. This dessert is not only popular in Bengal but across the entire Indian subcontinent, with variations known by different names and slight differences in preparation methods.

Ingredients and Preparation

The basic ingredients for Kheer include:

• Milk – The base of the pudding, usually full-fat milk is preferred for its richness.
• Rice or Vermicelli – Depending on the regional variation, either one is used as the main ingredient.
• Sugar – To sweeten the dish.
• Cardamom and Saffron – For flavoring.
• Nuts and Raisins – For garnishing and added texture.

The preparation of Kheer involves simmering the milk until it thickens, followed by the addition of rice or vermicelli. The mixture is then sweetened with sugar and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It is cooked on a low flame until the rice or vermicelli is fully cooked and the milk has reduced to a thick, creamy consistency. Finally, it is garnished with nuts and sometimes raisins before being served either hot or chilled.

Cultural Significance

Kheer is more than just a dessert in Bengal and the wider Indian subcontinent; it is a part of various festivals and celebrations. It is often prepared during Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Navratri, and Eid celebrations among Muslims. Kheer is also served as a part of the meal during weddings and pujas (prayer rituals), symbolizing auspiciousness and abundance.

Variations

While the basic concept of Kheer remains the same, there are numerous regional variations across the Indian subcontinent:

• Payasam – A South Indian version of Kheer, often made with jaggery and coconut milk.
• Phirni – A North Indian variant, where the rice is ground into a coarse paste before being cooked with milk.
• Sheer Khurma – A special Eid dessert in many Muslim households, made with vermicelli, milk, dates, and nuts.

See Also

• Indian sweets
• Bengali cuisine
• Desserts of the Indian subcontinent

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