Vermicelli & Oats Kheer Recipe: A Creamy Indian Delight
Discover the indulgent flavors of Vermicelli & Oats Kheer, a traditional Indian dessert that combines the rich, comforting textures of semiya (vermicelli) and oats in a creamy, milk-based pudding. Infused with the aromatic warmth of cardamom and the delightful crunch of roasted cashews and raisins, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, making it ideal for festive occasions or as a satisfying treat after a hearty meal.
This easy-to-make dessert is not only nourishing but also a delightful twist on the classic kheer, incorporating oats for an added health benefit. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this mouthwatering treat in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Vermicelli & Oats Kheer
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1 cup |
| Semiya (Vermicelli) | 1 cup |
| Milk | 500 ml |
| Raisins | 5 |
| Cashew Nuts | 5 |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | A pinch |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40 g |
| Protein | 5-6 g |
| Fat | 8-10 g |
| Fiber | 3-4 g |
| Sugar | 18-22 g |
Preparation Time & Cooking Time
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 3 servings |
Instructions to Make Vermicelli & Oats Kheer
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Soak the Raisins: Begin by soaking the raisins in a bowl of water for about 10 minutes. This will soften them and enhance their sweetness, which will blend beautifully with the creamy kheer.
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Roast the Oats: In a wok or a heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the instant oats over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn. Once roasted, transfer the oats to a small bowl and set aside.
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Roast the Cashews: In the same pan, add a tablespoon of ghee (clarified butter). Once the ghee melts, add the cashew nuts and sauté them until golden brown and aromatic. Be careful not to over-roast. Once done, remove the cashews from the pan and set them aside.
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Cook the Vermicelli: In a separate saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Add the vermicelli (semiya) to the boiling milk, stirring continuously for about 5-6 minutes. This will ensure that the vermicelli softens and cooks evenly in the milk. Once the vermicelli is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
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Add the Oats and Flavorings: Now, add the roasted oats, soaked raisins, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom powder to the pan with the cooked vermicelli. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring the oats are fully incorporated into the mixture. The oats will cause the kheer to thicken slightly, giving it a delightful, creamy texture.
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Adjust Consistency: If the kheer becomes too thick for your liking, feel free to add a bit of water or milk to loosen it up. Stir to combine, and allow the kheer to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Final Touches: Taste the kheer and adjust the sweetness as needed by adding more sugar. Once the flavors are perfect, remove the kheer from the heat.
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Garnish and Serve: Pour the kheer into serving bowls and garnish with the golden-roasted cashews that you set aside earlier. Serve warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
For a traditional Indian meal, pair this delightful Vermicelli & Oats Kheer with dishes like Lahsuni Dal (Garlic Lentils), Bhindi Masala (Spicy Okra), and Tawa Paratha (Indian Flatbread). The combination of flavors creates a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive feasts.
Tips & Variations:
- For a Creamier Texture: If you want a richer kheer, replace some of the milk with fresh cream or full-fat milk.
- Sweeteners: You can use jaggery, honey, or coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a more natural, earthy sweetness.
- Nuts & Dry Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pistachios, or even add dried figs and dates for extra sweetness.
- Flavors: If you prefer a stronger cardamom flavor, feel free to add more than a pinch. A few strands of saffron can also be added to elevate the aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Twist: The combination of oats and vermicelli gives this kheer a wholesome texture while keeping it light and nutritious.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this dessert doesn’t require extensive preparation, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Whether you like your kheer thick or runny, with extra sugar or less, you can adjust it to suit your personal taste.
- A Delicious Comfort Food: The warmth of the milk, the crunch of roasted nuts, and the sweet, creamy texture make this kheer a comforting dessert, especially during colder months or festivals.
Conclusion
This Vermicelli & Oats Kheer is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that blends the traditional flavors of Indian cuisine with a touch of innovation. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also a nourishing treat for your loved ones.
Enjoy this classic Indian dessert that’s perfect for every occasion, and savor the unique combination of oats, vermicelli, and spices in every spoonful!
