Rich and Creamy Sheer Khurma – Hyderabadi Vermicelli Kheer Dessert

Sheer Khurma Recipe – Seviyan or Vermicelli Kheer Pudding

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Servings

| Serves | 4 |

Cuisine:

Hyderabadi

Course:

Dessert

Diet:

Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk with Aromatics
   Start by heating 3 cups of milk in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup sugar, 3 saffron strands, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly pounded cardamom powder (Elaichi). Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely, and the milk begins to get infused with the fragrance of saffron and cardamom.

2. Add the Roasted Vermicelli
   Once the sugar has dissolved, incorporate 1/4 cup roasted Semiya (Vermicelli) into the milk. Allow the mixture to simmer gently on low heat. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent the vermicelli from sticking to the bottom. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the vermicelli softens and swells, absorbing the flavored milk.

3. Mix in Dates, Pistachios, and Raisins
   After the vermicelli is fully cooked, add 5 deseeded and finely chopped dates, 2 tablespoons of roughly broken pistachios, and 1 tablespoon of raisins to the simmering mixture. Continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the dry fruits to blend with the kheer, imparting a delightful sweetness and rich texture.

4. Adjust Consistency and Sweetness
   If you find that the Sheer Khurma is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk or water. Taste the kheer, and if desired, adjust the sugar level according to your preference. Let it simmer for a minute more to meld the flavors.

5. Serve
   Once the desired consistency is achieved, turn off the heat. Transfer the Sheer Khurma to a serving bowl and garnish it with some extra pistachios or saffron strands if you like. This delicious and fragrant pudding can be served either warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Enjoy Sheer Khurma as a delectable dessert after indulging in a grand Hyderabadi feast with dishes like Hyderabadi Biryani, Mirchi Ka Salan, and Burani Raita.

Tips & Notes:

• Vermicelli Roasting: If you are using raw vermicelli, it’s essential to roast them lightly in ghee until golden brown before adding them to the milk. This enhances the flavor and gives the kheer a beautiful color.
• Milk Options: For a richer taste, you can use full-fat milk. Alternatively, for a lighter version, use 2% or low-fat milk.
• Customizing Dry Fruits: You can easily customize the dry fruits based on availability. Almonds, cashews, or even dried figs can be added for an extra layer of richness.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Sheer Khurma can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Before serving, gently reheat on the stovetop with a little milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations:

• Vegan Sheer Khurma: For a dairy-free version, replace the milk with almond milk or coconut milk. Also, ensure that the vermicelli you use is free from dairy or butter.
• Nut-Free Option: If you’re allergic to nuts, you can skip the pistachios and substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely.

This aromatic Sheer Khurma is the perfect indulgence, making any festive occasion extra special. With the perfect balance of flavors and textures—soft vermicelli, rich dates, and crunchy pistachios—this dessert is a true celebration of Hyderabadi cuisine.