Quinoa Phirnee Recipe (Quinoa Milk Pudding)
Quinoa Phirnee is a delightful, creamy Indian dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It offers a rich, luxurious texture and a natural sweetness, making it a nutritious treat for both children and adults. This gluten-free dessert, made with quinoa, milk, and a variety of aromatic ingredients, is as comforting as it is delicious. Whether served warm or chilled, Quinoa Phirnee is sure to become a favorite at your next party or family gathering.
Ingredients for Quinoa Phirnee
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Condensed Milk (or Khoya) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Ghee | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Saffron strands | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mixed nuts (chopped, for garnish) | As desired |
Allergen Information:
- Contains dairy (milk, ghee, and condensed milk).
- The recipe can be made vegan by substituting the dairy ingredients with almond milk and eliminating the condensed milk or khoya.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian (if dairy is used).
- Can be adapted to vegan diets (substitute milk with almond milk and eliminate condensed milk).
- Gluten-free.
Preparation Instructions
-
Roasting Quinoa
Begin by heating a medium-sized saucepan on medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of ghee to the pan. Once the ghee warms up, add the quinoa. Toast the quinoa gently until it turns a light golden brown, infusing it with a nutty aroma. -
Cooking the Quinoa
Add 1 cup of hot water to the quinoa and bring it to a boil. Once the water has reduced by half, pour in 2 cups of hot milk. Add the saffron strands, which will impart a beautiful color and subtle fragrance to the pudding. Allow the quinoa and milk mixture to come to a gentle boil. -
Simmering the Mixture
Lower the flame and let the mixture simmer for about 7-8 minutes. This allows the quinoa to cook fully and absorb the flavors of the milk and saffron. -
Sweetening and Flavoring
Once the quinoa is tender and cooked through, add the sugar and cardamom powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more hot water at this stage. -
Adding Condensed Milk
Stir in the condensed milk (or khoya, if you’re using it). Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pudding to thicken to a creamy consistency. -
Serving
Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Quinoa Phirnee into individual serving bowls. Garnish with chopped mixed nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios, for added texture and flavor. -
Enjoy
Quinoa Phirnee can be served warm, straight from the stovetop, or chilled for a refreshing dessert option. Either way, it’s a decadent and nutritious treat!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40-45g |
| Protein | 7-8g |
| Fat | 10-12g |
| Fiber | 3-4g |
| Sugar | 18-20g |
Tips for Making Perfect Quinoa Phirnee:
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your phirnee by adding hot water to suit your preference. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add water gradually while simmering.
- Vegan Adaptation: To make this recipe vegan, substitute regular milk with almond milk and omit the condensed milk and ghee.
- Saffron Flavor: If saffron strands are unavailable, a pinch of saffron powder can be used instead. For an even stronger flavor, steep the saffron in a tablespoon of warm milk before adding it to the pudding.
- Make Ahead: Quinoa Phirnee can be prepared ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it chilled for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion:
Quinoa Phirnee is a luxurious and wholesome dessert that brings together the goodness of quinoa and the rich flavors of cardamom, saffron, and milk. This recipe is a great alternative to traditional rice-based phirnee and offers a gluten-free twist on a classic Indian pudding. Whether you’re serving it warm on a cool evening or chilled during the summer months, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a healthy dose of nutrients. With the option to make it vegan and gluten-free, Quinoa Phirnee is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone.
