Sweet Potato Kheer Recipe – A Hearty North Indian Delight
Description:
Sweet Potato Kheer is a wonderfully rich and creamy dessert, perfect for a cozy evening or a festive occasion. Combining the natural sweetness of grated sweet potatoes with the luxurious texture of coconut milk and the delicate fragrance of saffron, this dessert offers a wholesome treat for the senses. Infused with the warmth of cardamom and the nutty flavor of semolina, Sweet Potato Kheer is an elegant, yet simple dish to prepare, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys traditional North Indian sweets with a healthy twist. Whether enjoyed after a hearty meal or as a comforting dessert on a Sunday evening, this kheer is not just indulgent but also a great way to enjoy the goodness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet Potato | 1 (skin removed and grated) |
| Fresh Coconut | 1 cup (grated) |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 Pods |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar (or Jaggery) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sooji (Semolina/Rava) | 2 tablespoons |
| Saffron Strands | 10 strands |
| Cashew Nuts | 10 (for garnish) |
Preparation Time:
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total | 35 minutes |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Coconut Milk:
Begin by grinding the grated coconut along with the cardamom pods in a blender. Add a little water to help extract as much coconut milk as possible from the pulp. Once the milk is extracted, set it aside. -
-
Cook the Sweet Potato:
In a saucepan, add the grated sweet potato along with the freshly extracted coconut milk, milk, sugar (or jaggery), and saffron strands. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. -
Balancing the Sweetness:
Optionally, add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness of the dish. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. -
Add Semolina:
As the kheer begins to thicken, gradually add the semolina (sooji/rava) to the mixture. Keep stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and let the semolina cook for a few minutes until the kheer reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the kheer is thickened to your liking, switch off the heat. Transfer the kheer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped cashew nuts for an added crunch and flavor. -
Serve:
Sweet Potato Kheer is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed chilled. It pairs beautifully with a variety of North Indian dishes such as a flavorful Lucknowi Murg Biryani (Awadhi Chicken Biryani) and a refreshing Raita for a fulfilling Sunday lunch.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch of flavor, you can lightly roast the cashew nuts before adding them to the kheer. The roasted nuts add a deeper, more aromatic taste that complements the creamy richness of the kheer.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Kheer
Sweet Potato Kheer is not only a delightful dessert but also a healthier alternative to traditional sugary sweets, thanks to the inclusion of sweet potatoes, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. This dessert has the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it an excellent choice for those who crave something indulgent without the worry of excessive calories.
Whether you’re preparing this kheer for a special occasion or just as a treat after a comforting meal, its rich, velvety texture and exotic flavors are sure to leave your guests asking for more.
Enjoy the delicious, aromatic Sweet Potato Kheer, a dessert that blends tradition with innovation. Its gentle sweetness and creamy consistency make it an unforgettable dish on any table.
