Classic Semiya Kesari: Sweet Indian Vermicelli Dessert

Semiya Kesari Recipe – A Sweet, Aromatic Indian Dessert

Semiya Kesari, a delightful North Indian dessert, is a perfect blend of semiya (vermicelli), ghee, and fragrant spices. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to prepare. With the gentle sweetness of sugar, the aromatic touch of saffron, and the crunch of cashews and raisins, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to end any meal. Ideal for festivals, special occasions, or just a cozy afternoon snack, Semiya Kesari brings the warmth of traditional Indian sweets right into your kitchen.

Ingredients for Semiya Kesari

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions for Making Semiya Kesari

1. Roast the Vermicelli:

   • Begin by heating a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat. Add 1 teaspoon of ghee and gently roast the semiya (vermicelli) in it, stirring constantly until the vermicelli turns slightly golden and you can smell the roasted aroma. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

2. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:

   • While the semiya is roasting, take another saucepan and bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add in the sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely into the water, and allow the syrup to boil for a minute.

3. Cook the Semiya:

   • Once the sugar syrup is ready, pour it into the saucepan with the roasted semiya. Turn the heat to low and simmer the mixture. Let the semiya cook in the syrup for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes soft and fully absorbs the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

4. Add Ghee for Richness:

   • After the semiya has cooked, add 1/4 cup of ghee and mix it into the mixture. Stir well, letting the ghee infuse its richness into the semiya. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2 minutes on low heat to fully absorb the ghee.

5. Roast Cashews and Raisins:

   • In a small pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee over low heat. Add the halved cashew nuts and sauté until they turn golden and crispy. Add the raisins and sauté for a few more seconds until they puff up. Remove the pan from heat and set the roasted nuts and raisins aside.

6. Combine and Garnish:

   • Once the semiya is fully cooked and infused with ghee, remove the pan from heat. Garnish the top with the roasted cashews and raisins. Gently stir to combine or leave them as a topping for an extra crunch.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Semiya Kesari can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on your preference. This dessert is perfect to serve after a hearty meal. For a complete festive meal, serve it after a flavorful dish like Hyderabadi Biryani and a side of Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita for a delightful Sunday lunch.

Serving Suggestions for Semiya Kesari

• Ideal Pairing: Serve this fragrant and rich dessert alongside a spicy biryani or a hearty curry, and enjoy the balance of flavors.
• Occasions: Perfect for festivals like Diwali, Holi, or family gatherings.
• Variation: You can also add a handful of slivered almonds or pistachios for an additional nutty flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Semiya Kesari Recipe

• Quick & Easy: It comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, making it the perfect last-minute dessert.
• Vibrant & Flavorful: The saffron and cardamom give it an aromatic appeal that is bound to win hearts.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference and add more nuts or dried fruits to make it your own.

Final Thoughts

Semiya Kesari is a true celebration of Indian cuisine—simple, yet deeply satisfying. The combination of roasted vermicelli, ghee, and warm spices creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Enjoy this delectable North Indian dessert as part of your culinary journey, and share it with your loved ones for a memorable treat!