Chaler Payesh Recipe (Bengali Style Rice Pudding)
Chaler Payesh is a traditional Bengali rice pudding, a beloved dessert that is enjoyed across generations. Known for its rich, creamy texture and delicate sweetness, this dish is perfect for special occasions, festivals, or simply as a comforting end to a meal. Made with aromatic basmati or Govind Bhog rice, full-fat milk, and sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, this pudding embodies the essence of Bengali culinary culture. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the simplicity and elegance of Chaler Payesh will surely win your heart.
Ingredients for Chaler Payesh
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Govind Bhog Rice (or any short-grain rice) | 100 grams |
| Milk | 1-1/2 liters |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Cashew Nuts | 1 tablespoon |
| Cardamom Pods/Seeds | 3 to 4 |
| Condensed Milk | 5 teaspoons |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
- 4 servings
Cuisine:
- Bengali
Course:
- Dessert
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions for Chaler Payesh (Bengali Style Rice Pudding)
To prepare the delectable Chaler Payesh, follow these steps for a traditional Bengali dessert experience:
-
Boil the Milk
Begin by pouring the milk into a large saucepan and bring it to a simmer over low heat. Let the milk cook gently until it reduces to about three-quarters of its original volume. This will ensure a creamy base for the rice pudding. -
Prepare the Rice
While the milk is reducing, take the Govind Bhog rice (or any short-grain rice you prefer) and rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch. Once rinsed, heat the ghee in a separate pan and lightly sauté the rice in the ghee for a minute. This adds a subtle richness to the dish. -
Combine Milk and Rice
Once the milk has reduced, add the sautéed rice into the simmering milk. Stir the mixture well to ensure the rice cooks evenly. Let the rice cook in the milk until it softens and absorbs the flavors, which should take about 15–20 minutes. -
Sweeten the Payesh
After the rice has cooked, add the sugar and cardamom pods to the milk-rice mixture. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the milk takes on a sweet, fragrant flavor. The cardamom imparts a wonderful aroma that’s quintessential to this dish. -
Add Condensed Milk
To make the Chaler Payesh extra creamy, stir in the condensed milk. The condensed milk not only adds sweetness but also enhances the pudding’s rich consistency. Continue to stir the mixture and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. -
Garnish and Serve
Finally, add the cashew nuts to the pudding for a delightful crunch. For extra garnish, you can add a few more cashews on top. Once everything is well combined, remove the Payesh from heat. -
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chaler Payesh warm or chilled. In Bengali households, this dish is often enjoyed as a sweet treat after a hearty meal. You can also serve it during festivals like Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year) or Durga Puja to make the occasion extra special.
Tips for Making Perfect Chaler Payesh:
- Rice Choice: While traditional Govind Bhog rice is recommended for its unique fragrance and texture, you can use any short-grain rice like Basmati or even Arborio rice for a creamy pudding.
- Consistency: Adjust the cooking time to get your desired pudding consistency. For a thicker payesh, cook it a little longer to allow more milk to be absorbed by the rice.
- Flavoring: Cardamom is the traditional spice used in this recipe, but you can also experiment with a touch of saffron or rose water for a unique twist.
- Sweetness: Depending on your sweetness preference, you can adjust the sugar and condensed milk quantities.
Why You’ll Love Chaler Payesh:
Chaler Payesh is the epitome of Bengali hospitality, often served during major life events, festivals, and family gatherings. The rice, softened and infused with creamy milk, is luxuriously sweetened to perfection, while the crunch of cashews adds an extra layer of texture. The aroma of cardamom infuses every bite, making it a comforting dessert that’s both familiar and special.
Final Thoughts:
Chaler Payesh is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Bengali culinary traditions. Its simplicity, combined with its depth of flavor, makes it an ideal sweet to end any meal. Whether you’re familiar with Bengali cuisine or just beginning to explore it, this rice pudding is a perfect introduction to the rich flavors and culture of Bengal. Serve it at your next family gathering or festive occasion, and watch it become a cherished favorite!
