Aval Kesari (Flattened Rice Kesari) Recipe
A Delightful Indian Dessert for Any Occasion
Introduction:
Aval Kesari, also known as Sheera, is an incredibly simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that is loved across India. This sweet dish is often prepared in Indian households whenever there’s a craving for something sweet, whether it’s a grand celebration or an impromptu treat. Aval Kesari doesn’t require an auspicious occasion to make it, but it surely brings joy with every bite. The main ingredient, Poha (flattened rice), is transformed into a delightful pudding that melts in your mouth, enriched with the flavors of cardamom and ghee. Traditionally, it’s made with just a few ingredients that are easy to find, making it an ideal dessert for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened rice) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 2 1/2 cups |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch (optional) |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts | 6-7 pieces |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Roasting the Poha:
Start by heating a wok or kadai (a traditional Indian cooking vessel) over low to medium heat. Add the Poha (flattened rice) and dry roast it for about 5 minutes. Stir continuously to ensure it turns light brown without burning. Roasting the Poha enhances its flavor and texture, so be mindful of the heat. Once roasted, set it aside to cool. -
Grinding the Poha:
After the Poha has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a blender or grinder. Grind it to a coarse powder, similar in texture to semolina (rava). This will give your Aval Kesari its signature consistency. -
Boiling the Water:
While the Poha is cooling, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a separate small pot. This hot water will be used to cook the Poha mixture later. -
Making the Kesari Base:
In a clean, dry pan, add a tablespoon of ghee. Once the ghee melts and begins to sizzle, add the powdered Poha. Stir well to coat the Poha in the ghee. Cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the Poha is well-roasted in the ghee. -
Adding the Boiling Water:
Gradually pour the boiling water into the Poha mixture while stirring continuously. This step is essential to avoid lumps. Continue stirring to make sure that the Poha absorbs the water evenly. Reduce the flame to low and allow the mixture to cook. You’ll know it’s cooked when the Poha no longer sticks to the pan or your hands. -
Sweetening the Kesari:
Once the Poha is cooked, add the sugar. Stir the mixture constantly as the sugar dissolves. Keep cooking the mixture for another 3-5 minutes until the Kesari reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency. -
Finishing Touches:
Finally, add the cardamom powder (elaichi) for fragrance and flavor. Stir in the remaining ghee (1 tablespoon) and roasted cashew nuts. Continue cooking for a few more minutes to allow all the flavors to blend together. -
Serving:
Once the Aval Kesari is cooked to a smooth, glossy consistency, remove it from the heat. Serve warm, garnished with more cashew nuts if desired. You can pair it with crispy Masala Vada or enjoy it on its own as a sweet conclusion to your meal.
Tips & Variations:
- Consistency Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker or thinner Kesari, simply adjust the quantity of water as per your liking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of saffron threads to elevate the color and flavor of the dish for special occasions.
- Nut Varieties: You can also use almonds, pistachios, or even raisins instead of cashews for variation.
- Serving Suggestions: Aval Kesari is perfect for festivals like Diwali, Pongal, or Ganesh Chaturthi, but it can also be served as a comforting dessert for a weeknight dinner or potluck.
Conclusion:
Aval Kesari is a comforting and easy-to-make dessert that brings warmth and joy to any meal. With its subtle flavors of cardamom, the richness of ghee, and the crunch of roasted cashews, it’s no wonder that this dish is a household favorite across India. Whether you serve it at a grand festive meal or as a sweet surprise for unexpected guests, Aval Kesari never fails to delight!
