Steamed Colostrum Pudding with Jaggery and Cardamom

Seem Paal Recipe – Steamed Colostrum Milk Pudding

Introduction:

The Seem Paal is a delightful traditional Indian dessert that has been passed down through generations. Known for its simple yet flavorful preparation, this Steamed Colostrum Milk Pudding is made using fresh colostrum (early milk) and sweetened with jaggery, making it a nourishing and wholesome treat. It is especially popular in rural India, where it is often enjoyed as a part of post-birth meals due to its rich nutritional value. This comforting pudding offers a unique taste, with a touch of cardamom for a warm, aromatic finish. Perfect for any occasion, Seem Paal is a comforting dessert that highlights the goodness of natural ingredients.

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: 4-6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Colostrum (early milk)	3 cups
Jaggery (or sugar)	1 cup
Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds	2 pods, pounded

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Fat	2.3 g
Carbohydrates	25 g
Fiber	1.5 g
Sugar	22 g
Calcium	55 mg
Iron	0.9 mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes.)

Instructions

Prepare the Steamer:
- Begin by adding water to the idli steamer and placing a plate at the bottom to separate the bowl from the base of the steamer. This ensures that the pudding does not stick or burn.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a wide bowl that can fit inside your steamer, add the colostrum (early milk).
- Add the jaggery (or sugar) to the milk. Mix gently using a spoon until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
- Add the pounded cardamom to the mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the cardamom flavor throughout the milk.
Steam the Pudding:
- Carefully place the bowl with the milk mixture into the preheated steamer. Cover and steam the mixture for 15-20 minutes.
- The pudding will gradually firm up as it steams, taking on a texture similar to a soft, creamy custard.
Final Touches:
- After the steaming time is up, turn off the heat but allow the Seem Paal to remain in the steamer for a few more minutes to set.
- Once it has cooled slightly, carefully remove the bowl from the steamer.
Serve the Seem Paal:
- Run a knife along the edges of the steamed pudding to loosen it from the bowl.
- Gently invert the bowl onto a plate to unmold the Seem Paal.
- Serve the Seem Paal as a delicious dessert, and enjoy its sweet, aromatic flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Seem Paal is best enjoyed after a meal, especially when paired with savory dishes that complement its sweetness. A perfect meal pairing might include:

Karnataka Style Avarekalu Pulao Recipe – Avarekalu Pulao
Karuvepillai Pachadi Recipe – Curry Leaf Raita
South Indian Style Green Moong Sprouts, Raw Mango Salad Recipe

These dishes provide a balanced and satisfying meal that leads into the smooth and delightful taste of Seem Paal, a true treat for your taste buds.

Tips & Variations:

Milk Substitution: If you cannot find colostrum, you can use fresh full-fat milk as a substitute. However, the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
Sweetener Options: You can adjust the sweetness level by using more or less jaggery according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a less traditional version, you can also use brown sugar or white sugar.
Cardamom Alternatives: If you don’t have cardamom pods, you can use ground cardamom. Just be sure to use a smaller amount, as ground cardamom is more potent than fresh pods.

Conclusion:

The Seem Paal Recipe is a simple yet delicious dessert that brings together the flavors of natural ingredients in the most wholesome way. Whether you are looking to try something new or connect with the culinary traditions of India, this sweet pudding is a perfect choice. Steam it to perfection and enjoy the rich texture and aromatic taste that will make your dessert time truly special.