Foxtail Millet Kheer Recipe (Millet Pudding with Saffron & Nuts)
Foxtail millet, known for its nutritional benefits, is a perfect choice to elevate a traditional dessert like kheer, offering a unique twist on the classic. This Foxtail Millet Kheer, also called Payasam in Tamil Nadu, is rich, creamy, and delicately flavored with saffron and complemented by the goodness of fresh coconut and nuts. Perfect for festive occasions or as a comforting end to a regular meal, this dessert is both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 1 liter |
| Foxtail Millet | 50 grams |
| Saffron Strands | 5 strands |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Mixed Dry Fruits (like almonds, cashews, pistachios) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 5-6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Fiber | 3-4 grams |
| Sugar | 10-12 grams |
| Calcium | 100-120 mg |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by transferring 1 liter of milk into a heavy-bottomed pan. Place the pan over medium heat. As the milk begins to heat up, wash the foxtail millet thoroughly and drain any excess water. This helps prevent any residual moisture from affecting the texture of the kheer.
-
Cook the Millet:
- Once the milk begins to boil, add the washed foxtail millet along with the saffron strands. Allow the milk to come to a quick boil again.
- After the milk has boiled, reduce the heat to low, allowing the kheer to simmer gently. Continue cooking the mixture for about 10-15 minutes, or until the foxtail millet is completely cooked through. You can test this by taking a bite; the millet should be tender and soft.
-
Add Coconut and Sweeten:
- Once the millet is cooked, add the freshly grated coconut and sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine, and let the mixture simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that the milk does not scorch or stick to the bottom of the pan. The mixture should thicken slightly, but still remain creamy.
- At this point, check the sweetness and adjust the sugar as needed to suit your taste.
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Finish the Kheer:
- Turn off the heat once the kheer has thickened to your desired consistency. The kheer should have a smooth, pudding-like texture that is not too runny.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Foxtail Millet Kheer with slivered almonds, cashews, and pistachios. These add both flavor and texture to the dish, enhancing its richness.
- The kheer can be served warm, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold dessert. Both options are equally delightful!
Serving Suggestions:
Foxtail Millet Kheer is best enjoyed as a comforting dessert, especially after a hearty meal. You can pair it with:
- Steamed Rice: A simple, fragrant base that complements the richness of the kheer.
- Tamil Nadu Style Pala Kottai Sambar: A tangy, spicy lentil stew that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the kheer.
- Kongunadu Special Pattani Biryani: A flavorful and aromatic biryani, which pairs wonderfully with the dessert for a fulfilling meal.
Tips for Perfect Foxtail Millet Kheer:
-
Use Full-fat Milk: For a richer, creamier kheer, opt for whole milk. Skim milk can be used, but it will result in a less indulgent texture.
-
Customize the Nuts: You can use any combination of nuts you prefer. Cashews, almonds, and pistachios are commonly used, but feel free to experiment with walnuts, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts.
-
Adjust Sweetness: Indian desserts can be quite sweet, but you can adjust the sugar to your liking. If you want a lighter version, reduce the sugar by half or use natural sweeteners like jaggery or coconut sugar for a more earthy flavor.
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Chill for Better Flavor: Letting the kheer rest in the fridge for a few hours allows the flavors to meld and develop further. It also makes for a refreshing dessert, especially in warm weather.
Foxtail Millet Kheer (Millet Pudding with Saffron & Nuts) is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a nourishing dessert full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. This simple yet exquisite dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious fusion of traditional flavors with a modern twist. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal or celebration.
