Pineapple Kesari Bhath Recipe – Sweet Semolina Pudding
Pineapple Kesari Bhath, a cherished dessert from Karnataka, combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the rich, aromatic flavors of ghee, cardamom, and saffron. This dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and warmth, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, festive occasions, or a special treat to end a meal. With its soft, luscious texture and bright, fruity essence, this sweet semolina pudding will undoubtedly delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sooji (Semolina/ Rava) – fine | 1 cup |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 1/4 cup |
| Pineapple – finely chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Saffron strands | A few |
| Milk (hot) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Edible camphor (pacha karpooram) | 1 pinch |
| Ghee (for tempering) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew nuts | 10 pieces |
| Raisins | 10 pieces |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Saffron Milk
Start by soaking the saffron strands in a tablespoon of hot milk. Set it aside, allowing the saffron to infuse and release its vibrant color and fragrance.
Step 2: Roast Cashews and Raisins
In a small skillet, heat a tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the cashew nuts and roast them until they are golden brown and crisp. Add the raisins next and sauté them until they puff up, signaling they are ready. Turn off the heat and set the cashew nuts and raisins aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pineapple
In a saucepan, cook the finely chopped pineapple over low heat until it softens and becomes well-cooked. Once done, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Keep this aside for later use.
Step 4: Boil the Milk Mixture
In a separate saucepan, bring the remaining hot milk and 2 cups of water to a brisk boil. Add the sugar, cardamom powder, saffron milk, and a pinch of edible camphor. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer while you prepare the semolina.
Step 5: Roast the Semolina
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1/4 cup of ghee over medium heat. Add the semolina (rava) and begin roasting it in the ghee. Stir continuously until the semolina turns golden brown and releases a pleasant roasted aroma.
Step 6: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the simmering milk mixture to the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Be cautious as the hot milk and water mixture can cause the semolina to bubble up suddenly. Keep stirring until the semolina absorbs the liquid and the mixture thickens.
Step 7: Final Stir and Add-ins
Once the Kesari Bhath has thickened and begins to leave the sides of the pan, stir in the cooked pineapple, roasted cashew nuts, and raisins. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures.
Step 8: Serve
Transfer the Pineapple Kesari Bhath to a serving dish and garnish with additional cashews and raisins, if desired. Serve warm or chilled. This dish is often enjoyed with Khara Bhath (Rava Upma) as part of a traditional breakfast, or it can be served during special occasions like weddings and festivals.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Kesari Bhath
- Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your pineapple, you can adjust the amount of sugar. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
- Use fresh pineapple: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple. The sweetness and juiciness of fresh pineapple make a significant difference in the dish’s overall taste.
- Roast semolina well: Roasting the semolina until it turns golden brown is key to achieving the perfect texture for your Kesari Bhath. It also helps release the nutty aroma that enhances the flavor of the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~275 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Enjoy this delectable Pineapple Kesari Bhath as a dessert or a treat for any special occasion. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a comforting family meal, this dish brings a taste of Karnataka to your table.
