Bengali Chirer Payesh (Poha Pudding) with Nolen Gur
Bengali Chirer Payesh, also known as Poha Pudding, is a traditional Bengali dessert made with flattened rice (poha) and sweetened with Nolen Gur, a special date palm jaggery. This decadent pudding is rich in flavor and aroma, with the natural sweetness of Nolen Gur imparting a unique and earthy taste to the dish. A beloved treat during festive occasions in Bengal, this dessert can easily be made at home and is the perfect way to indulge in the rich culinary traditions of the region. In case Nolen Gur is unavailable, brown sugar can serve as a close substitute.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened Rice) | 1/2 cup |
| Rice Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 2 1/2 liters |
| Nolen Gur (or Brown Sugar) | 1 cup |
| Cardamom Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Mixed Nuts (Almonds/Cashews) | 8-10, chopped |
| Sultana Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Saffron Strands | 1 pinch, and extra for garnish |
| Salt | Pinch |
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions
To prepare Bengali Chirer Payesh/Poha Pudding with Nolen Gur, follow these easy steps to recreate this delightful dessert:
-
Prepare the Poha
Start by washing the poha (flattened rice) thoroughly under running water and then strain it well to remove excess water. Once strained, soak the poha in 1 cup of milk to soften it. -
Prepare the Rice Flour Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of rice flour with 1/2 cup of milk and keep it aside. -
Soak the Saffron
Soak a pinch of saffron strands in a small amount of warm milk and set it aside. -
Boil the Milk and Cardamom
In a saucepan, combine the remaining 2 1/2 liters of milk with the cardamom pods. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning at the bottom. -
Add the Rice Flour Mixture
Once the milk begins to boil, slowly add the rice flour and milk mixture into the boiling milk while stirring continuously. This will thicken the milk and help create the creamy texture typical of payesh. -
Cook the Mixture
Allow the milk to cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help the rice flour blend into the milk, making the mixture thicker and more concentrated. -
Add the Poha
After the rice flour has cooked and the milk has thickened, add the soaked poha (flattened rice) into the saucepan. Also, add the saffron-infused milk to the pot. Continue to cook the mixture for another 15 minutes, allowing the poha to cook and the milk to reduce further, creating a rich and creamy pudding. -
Sweeten the Payesh
Once the poha is well-cooked and the milk has thickened, add the Nolen Gur (or brown sugar). Stir gently until the jaggery or brown sugar has dissolved completely, ensuring that the pudding is evenly sweetened. -
Add the Nuts and Raisins
Add the chopped almonds, cashews, and a pinch of salt to the payesh. Stir for a minute, allowing the nuts to soften and infuse their flavor into the pudding. -
Serve and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat and transfer the Bengali Chirer Payesh to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional saffron strands, chopped almonds, cashews, and sultana raisins for a colorful and festive touch.
Tips and Advice
- Nolen Gur vs Brown Sugar: Nolen Gur is an essential ingredient in this recipe, lending its unique flavor. However, if you cannot find Nolen Gur, brown sugar is a good alternative that provides a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Consistency: The consistency of the pudding can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer a thinner pudding, simply add more milk towards the end of the cooking process. For a thicker consistency, cook the mixture longer.
- Serving Suggestions: Bengali Chirer Payesh can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it a versatile dessert for different occasions. For an indulgent dinner, serve it alongside a hearty Cholar Dal (Bengali Lentil Curry) or Aar Macher Jhol (Bengali Fish Curry) and Jeera Rice for a truly satisfying meal.
- Saffron: Saffron not only enhances the flavor but also gives the pudding a beautiful golden hue. If saffron is unavailable, you can use a few drops of yellow food color as a substitute.
Allergen Information
- Contains Dairy: This recipe is made with milk, which may not be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies. You can substitute with plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk) for a dairy-free version.
- Contains Nuts: The recipe includes mixed nuts (almonds and cashews), which could be problematic for those with nut allergies. Feel free to omit or replace with seeds or other nut-free options if necessary.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This dessert is vegetarian-friendly, as it does not contain any animal meat or gelatin.
- Gluten-Free Option: Rice flour is naturally gluten-free, making this dessert suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Bengali Chirer Payesh with Nolen Gur is a rich, aromatic dessert that captures the essence of Bengali festivals and traditions. The creamy texture, coupled with the distinct sweetness of Nolen Gur, makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special festival or just craving something indulgent, this poha pudding is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy it hot or chilled, and serve it as part of a traditional Bengali meal for an unforgettable experience.
