Carrot Kheer
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped carrots, divided
- 4 cups milk, divided
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon chopped green cardamom
- 2 table spoon sliced almonds
Instructions
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Before chopping the carrot, it is advisable to wash and peel it, peeling is an important part of the preparation. Blend 1 cup chopped carrots with 1 cup milk to a fine paste.
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Bring the remaining milk to a boil over medium-low heat in a saucepan. To prevent the milk from sticking, wet the pan with a little water before adding the milk.
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Once the milk boils, add the shredded carrots and carrot paste. Continue to boil for about 15 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Scrape down the sides of the pan to prevent sticking and darkening.
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Cook until the carrots are tender and the milk has reduced by about half, becoming creamy. Stir often to prevent burning.
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Add the sugar, cardamom, almonds and cashews and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes.
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Turn off the fire.
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As the kheer cools, its consistency will thicken.
Notes
Enjoy! To serve as a pudding, you should cook the kheer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to thicken it to the consistency of a pudding.
Carrot Kheer (Carrot Paayasam): A delicious twist on a timeless Indian dessert | Manjula’s cuisine
Introduction to Carrot Kheer
Kheer is one of the most popular and traditional desserts in Indian cuisine, with its creamy, sweet and flavorful profile making it a favorite during holidays and special occasions. Carrot Kheeralso known as Carrot payasamoffers a delicious twist on traditional rice-based kheer, adding a unique layer of flavor and texture with shredded carrots. Over the years, kheer has seen many variations and this version combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the creamy goodness of milk and sugar. With a few simple ingredients, this Carrot Kheer offers a rich and tasty dessert, perfect for any occasion.
Cultural and traditional importance
Kheer holds a special place in Indian households, especially during festivals like Diwali, Holi and Raksha Bandhan. It is often served as an offering to deities and enjoyed as a dessert after meals. While Rice Kheer it is the most traditional form, Carrot Kheer adds a refreshing touch by incorporating a vegetable into the dessert, making it nutritious and tasty. The vibrant color of carrots combined with the rich texture of milk creates an aesthetically pleasing and indulgent treat that is sure to impress your family and friends.
While Carrot Kheer may not be as well known as its rice-based counterpart, it is quickly gaining popularity for its unique taste and simplicity. This version strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and creaminess, making it a must-try for those looking to experiment with traditional Indian desserts.
Recipe variations from Manjula’s kitchen
While Carrot Kheer is a delicious dessert on its own, you can explore other variations of kheer or similar milk-based desserts Manjula’s cuisine:
- Rice Kheer: The classic and most traditional form of kheer made from rice, milk and sugar.
- Sabudana Kheer: A delicious variation made with tapioca pearls, commonly served during fasting periods.
- Vermicelli Kheer (Seviyan Kheer): Made with thin vermicelli, this version offers a unique texture to traditional kheer.
- Badam Burfi (Almond Candy): Rich and creamy, this version uses almonds to create a decadent dessert that is both healthy and delicious.
Health benefits and dietary considerations
Carrot Kheer offers a nutritious alternative to traditional kheer, with the inclusion of carrots which provide a good source of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which promotes eye health and strengthens the immune system, making this kheer not only delicious but also beneficial for overall well-being. Plus, the milk provides calcium and protein, while the nuts add healthy fats, making this dessert a well-rounded treat.
This kheer can be easily adapted to various dietary preferences. For a vegan option, you can replace cow’s milk with almond or coconut milk. The natural sweetness of carrots also allows you to reduce added sugars if you prefer a lighter dessert.
Serving Tips
Carrot Kheer it can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it an attractive addition to any holiday meal. For an even more indulgent experience, you can serve Carrot Kheer with a sprinkling of extra chopped dried fruit, such as almonds or pistachios, for extra crunch and richness.
If you want to serve Carrot Kheer as a pudding, cook it for a few more minutes to achieve a thicker, pudding-like consistency. This version pairs wonderfully with Gulab JAWant or for a full plate of Indian dessert.
Conclusion
Carrot Kheer it is a simple yet luxurious dessert that offers a modern twist on the traditional Indian dessert. With its creamy texture, vibrant color and delicate sweetness, this dessert is sure to become a favorite on your table. Whether you’re celebrating a party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this Carrot Kheer the recipe is absolutely worth trying. Explore other kheer variations on Manjula’s cuisine to discover even more delicious ways to enjoy this timeless dessert.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- What is the difference between Carrot Kheer and Rice Kheer?
- Carrot Kheer uses chopped carrots as the main ingredient, while Rice Kheer it is made with rice. Both versions are cooked in milk and flavored with sugar and cardamom, but Carrot Kheer offers a more vibrant color and slightly different texture.
- Can I make Carrot Kheer vegan?
- Yes, you can do it easily Carrot Kheer vegan by using plant-based milks such as almond or coconut milk instead of milk.
- What are other variations of kheer that I can try?
- You can try Rice Kheer, Sabudana Kheer, Vermicelli KheerOR Badam Kheereach offering unique flavors and textures while being deliciously creamy and satisfying.
- How can I serve Carrot Kheer as pudding?
- Serve Carrot Kheer as a pudding, cook it for 2-3 minutes longer for a thicker, pudding-like consistency. You can serve it hot or cold
- How long can I store Carrot Kheer?
- Carrot Kheer It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it gently before serving if you prefer it hot.
