What is Kheer?
Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made by simmering rice in milk with sugar and aromatic spices. Often enjoyed as a comforting treat, kheer is creamy and indulgent, making it a popular choice for special occasions and everyday indulgence.
It is traditionally flavored with cardamom, and saffron, and garnished with nuts and raisins, adding layers of taste and texture. This classic pudding is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.Plus, it is very easy to make it vegan by using any plant-based milk.
Why I Love Making Vegan Kheer
I love making my vegan kheer because it’s a comforting dessert that perfectly fits a plant-based lifestyle. The cooking process allows the rice to absorb the rich, creamy texture of full-fat oat milk, creating a satisfying and indulgent treat.
The fragrant cardamom and the natural sweetness from the sugar elevate the flavors, making it truly irresistible. What I particularly enjoy is how versatile vegan Kheer is—I can tailor it with different nuts and spices to suit my taste. Whether I’m enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends and family, it always turns out delicious and heartwarming.
What is Needed to Cook My Kheer
To cook my kheer, you’ll need jasmine rice, water, whole milk or full-fat plant-based milk, sugar, ground cardamom, and your choice of nuts and golden raisins. I use sliced coconut, almonds, and raisins. The key to a great kheer is in the quality of these ingredients and the patience to cook it slowly, allowing the flavors to develop fully.
Whether you opt for traditional dairy milk or oat milk for a vegan twist, this recipe is sure to deliver a creamy, flavorful dessert.
Try My Rice-Based Side Dishes
Rice with Chickpeas ( Chana pulao)
Creamy Kheer Recipe ( Rice Pudding)
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Set of Measuring Spoons
- One Set of measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice soaked for 15 to 30 minutes
- 2 cups water
- 10 cups whole milk or full fat oat milk
- 1.5 cups sugar adjust to taste
- 4 whole green cardamom adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or any nuts of your choice
- 1/4 cup sliced dry coconut
- 1/4 cup Golden raisins
- 2 bay leaves optional
- 1 2" cinnamom stick
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Soak the jasmine rice in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes. Drain, rinse, and set aside.
- Cook the Rice: Press the sauté button on your pot and add 2 cups of water. Once the water starts to steam, pour in the milk (this prevents the milk from burning). Add the soaked rice and stir to combine. Add cardamoms
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, close the pressure valve, and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Finish the Kheer: Once the pressure is released, open the lids. Press the sauté button again. Stir in the sugar, nuts, and golden raisins. Mix until well combined. The kheer will thicken as it cools. For a thicker pudding, continue to sauté and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Carefully remove cardamoms if you like. I leave them in.
- Enjoy your creamy, delicious kheer!
Notes
How I Cook My Kheer
I start by soaking jasmine rice in cold water for about 15 to 30 minutes. This step helps the rice cook evenly and absorb the milk better. After draining and rinsing the rice, I press the sauté button on my pot and add 2 cups of water.
Once the water begins to steam, I pour in the milk to prevent it from burning. I then add the soaked rice and give it a good stir. Securing the lid and closing the pressure valve, I cook the mixture on high pressure for 20 minutes.
After allowing the pressure to release naturally, I switch back to the sauté function. I stir in sugar, ground cardamom, nuts, and golden raisins until well combined. The kheer thickens as it cools, and if I prefer it thicker, I continue to sauté until it reaches the desired consistency.
Reasons To Love This Vegan Dessert
I like vegan kheer because it brings the same comforting richness as the traditional version but with a plant-based twist. Using oat milk, this version achieves a wonderfully creamy texture that makes the pudding both indulgent and satisfying. It’s incredibly versatile, as you can customize it with various nuts and spices to match your taste preferences.
This is a great recipe to enjoy on a regular day or serving it at a festive gathering. Vegan Kheer offers a heartwarming and delightful experience. Plus, it’s nutritious, and packed with the goodness of oat milk, nuts, and spices, making it a deliciously wholesome treat.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Soak the Rice: Soaking jasmine rice helps it cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
Avoid Burning Milk: Ensure the water is steaming before adding the milk to prevent burning.
Pressure Cooking: Cooking under pressure ensures the rice is tender and the flavors meld together.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker kheer, continue to sauté until you reach the desired thickness.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different nuts and spices to create unique flavors.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this kheer recipe because it’s a delightful and versatile dessert that can cater to both traditional and vegan preferences. The use of plant-based milk ensures that the kheer remains rich and creamy without any dairy, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Despite the absence of dairy, the taste is incredibly satisfying, with the same comforting texture you expect from classic kheer. Nutritionally, the combination of oat milk and nuts provides a good source of healthy fats and protein, making it not just delicious but also nourishing.
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions about Kheer
Q: How do I store kheer?
A: Store kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can we freeze kheer?
A: Yes, you can freeze kheer. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezersafe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can we make Kheer ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Kheer can be made a day or two in advance. It often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Q: Can I use coconut or almond milk instead of oat milk?
A: Yes, you can substitute almond or coconut milk, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Q: How do I adjust the sweetness of kheer?
A: Adjust the amount of sugar to taste. You can start with less and add more if needed.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice may require a longer cooking time and may result in a slightly different texture.
