Bengali Chirer Payesh / Poha Pudding Recipe with Nolen Gur
Introduction
Bengali Chirer Payesh, also known as Poha Pudding, is a delightful dessert made with flattened rice (poha) and flavored with rich Nolen Gur, a traditional date palm jaggery from Bengal. This velvety, creamy dessert carries the comforting warmth of saffron, cardamom, and mixed nuts, making it a perfect conclusion to a hearty Bengali meal. The rich, caramel-like flavor of Nolen Gur adds a unique twist to the classic payesh, taking it to new heights of deliciousness. Whether served warm or chilled, it pairs beautifully with a Bengali meal of Cholar Dal, Aar Macher Jhol, and Jeera Rice.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened rice) | 1/2 cup |
| Rice flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 2 1/2 liters |
| Nolen Gur (or brown sugar) | 1 cup |
| Cardamom pods/seeds (Elaichi) | 2 pods |
| Mixed nuts (almonds/cashews) | 8-10 pieces |
| Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Saffron strands | 1 pinch (and extra for garnish) |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin A | 200 IU |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash the poha (flattened rice): Start by rinsing the poha under cold water. Make sure to strain the excess water out after washing it thoroughly.
- Soak the poha: Once drained, soak the washed poha in 1 cup of milk. Set it aside to absorb the milk and soften.
- Mix rice flour with milk: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of rice flour with 1/2 cup of milk. Stir until smooth, making sure there are no lumps. Keep this mixture aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Flavor Base
- Soak saffron: In a separate small bowl, soak a pinch of saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk. This will release the beautiful golden color and aroma of the saffron. Set it aside.
- Boil milk with cardamom: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the remaining 2 liters of milk to a boil over medium heat. Add the cardamom pods to the milk, infusing it with a subtle fragrance. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Thicken the Milk
- Add rice flour mixture: Once the milk reaches a rolling boil, slowly pour in the rice flour and milk mixture while stirring constantly. This will help thicken the milk.
- Simmer the mixture: Let the milk simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently. The rice flour will cook during this time, and the milk will start to condense, becoming creamy and rich.
Step 4: Cook the Poha (Flattened Rice)
- Add soaked poha: After the milk has thickened, gently stir in the milk-soaked poha. Be sure to mix well so the poha is evenly distributed throughout the pudding.
- Add saffron-infused milk: Pour in the saffron-infused milk, stirring it through the pudding to impart its color and fragrance.
- Continue cooking: Allow the mixture to simmer for another 15 minutes. During this time, the flattened rice will cook thoroughly, and the pudding will continue to thicken.
Step 5: Sweeten and Garnish
- Add Nolen Gur or brown sugar: Once the poha is cooked and the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency, add 1 cup of Nolen Gur (or brown sugar). Stir well until the jaggery completely dissolves into the pudding, infusing it with a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Stir in nuts and salt: Next, add chopped almonds and cashews along with a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture and allow it to cook for an additional minute.
Step 6: Serve the Chirer Payesh
- Garnish: Pour the Bengali Chirer Payesh into a serving bowl. Garnish with saffron strands, chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: This poha pudding can be enjoyed warm or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a Bengali meal featuring Cholar Dal, Aar Macher Jhol, and Jeera Rice.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bengali Chirer Payesh
- Use full-fat milk: Full-fat milk gives the payesh its creamy richness, so avoid using low-fat or skim milk for the best results.
- Stir constantly: When adding rice flour and milk, make sure to stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste: While Nolen Gur imparts a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with brown sugar if Nolen Gur is unavailable. Adjust the quantity to your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with garnishes: Feel free to add other garnishes like pistachios or rose petals for a festive presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Bengali Tradition: Nolen Gur, a traditional jaggery, gives this dessert a nostalgic and authentic Bengali flavor.
- Simple Yet Elegant: With a handful of ingredients, this dessert comes together easily but still feels indulgent.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, Chirer Payesh is a dessert that’s sure to impress.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm for comforting vibes in winter or chilled for a refreshing summer treat.
FAQ
Can I make Chirer Payesh in advance?
Yes, Bengali Chirer Payesh can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember that the payesh will thicken further when chilled, so you might need to add a little warm milk when reheating to get the desired consistency.
What can I use as a substitute for Nolen Gur?
If you can’t find Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery), you can substitute it with brown sugar or even regular jaggery. The flavor will differ slightly, but the dessert will still taste delicious.
Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! In addition to almonds and cashews, you can use pistachios, walnuts, or even pecans to add crunch and flavor to the payesh.
Related Recipes to Try:
- Cholar Dal Recipe: A flavorful Bengal gram lentil curry with aromatic spices.
- Aar Macher Jhol: A traditional Bengali fish curry in a light and fragrant gravy.
- Jeera Rice: Simple yet flavorful cumin-flavored rice that pairs well with Bengali meals.
Enjoy making this delightful Bengali Chirer Payesh with Nolen Gur at home, and savor the rich, comforting flavors that have been cherished for generations in Bengali households!
