Sabudana Kheer Recipe – Tapioca Pearl Milk Pudding
Sabudana Kheer, also known as Sago Payasam, is a traditional Indian dessert loved across the country. This rich, creamy pudding is made from tapioca pearls (sabudana), milk, sugar, and a variety of aromatic spices and nuts. Each region in India may have its own variation of this beloved treat, but the classic version of this Sabudana Kheer recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s a recipe that I have cherished from my childhood and continue to prepare at home, perfect for any occasion or as a sweet ending to a delicious meal.
Whether it’s for a festive celebration or a simple evening snack, Sabudana Kheer is an indulgent and comforting dessert that brings back fond memories of home and family. This simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings on a cozy day.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls) | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1 liter |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| Slivered Almonds (Badam) | 1/4 cup |
| Sultana Raisins | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150-200 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 15g |
Instructions
-
Soak the Sabudana
Begin by soaking the sabudana (tapioca pearls) in water for about an hour. This helps them soften and expand. Once soaked, drain the water and set the sabudana aside. -
Prepare the Milk
In a large saucepan, add the milk and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once the milk begins to heat up, add the sugar and stir until it dissolves completely. Allow the milk to continue boiling, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. As it simmers, the milk will reduce to about half of its original quantity, a process known as milk condensation. This reduction intensifies the flavors and creates a thick, creamy base for the kheer. -
Cook the Sabudana
While the milk is simmering, take another large saucepan and bring 2-1/2 cups of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the soaked sabudana pearls and cook until they become soft and translucent. The cooking time may vary, but it should take around 5-7 minutes. Once the sabudana is cooked, drain the excess water and transfer the pearls to another bowl. Set aside. -
Combine Milk and Sabudana
Once the milk has reduced, add the cardamom powder and the cooked sabudana pearls to the saucepan. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes. The flavors will meld together, and the pudding will thicken further, achieving a rich, smooth texture. -
Prepare the Garnish
In a small pan, heat the ghee and add the slivered almonds. Roast them gently until they turn golden brown, then add the sultana raisins. Stir them together for a few seconds until the raisins puff up slightly. Remove from heat. -
Finish the Kheer
Pour the roasted almonds and puffed raisins into the simmering Sabudana Kheer. Stir gently to incorporate the garnish into the pudding. -
Serve
Transfer the Sabudana Kheer to a serving bowl. Serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference. This indulgent treat pairs wonderfully with Medu Vadas, Sambar, and Chutney for a South Indian-inspired snack or makes for a delectable dessert after a hearty meal.
Tips and Variations
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. You can also replace regular sugar with jaggery or brown sugar for a more traditional or healthier twist.
- Nuts & Dry Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like cashews or pistachios. You can also add chopped coconut or dried fruits for added texture.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version of Sabudana Kheer, substitute milk with coconut milk or almond milk and use plant-based ghee or oil for roasting the nuts.
This Sabudana Kheer is a wonderful dessert that captures the essence of Indian home-cooked sweets, combining the soft texture of tapioca pearls with the rich flavor of condensed milk and fragrant cardamom. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat during festivals or as a simple dessert to end a meal, this dish will always evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Try it at home and bring a little bit of traditional Indian sweetness into your kitchen today!
