Recipe - Creamy Orange Carrot Kheer

Kheer, the beloved Indian rice pudding, has been a cherished dessert for generations. Its creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it a staple at festive occasions and family gatherings. But have you ever considered giving this classic dessert a refreshing twist? In this article, we introduce you to the delightful Orange Carrot Kheer, a fusion dessert that combines the sweetness of carrots and the zesty tang of oranges. Plus, we'll guide you through the preparation process, which takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a perfect treat for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup rice
4 cups milk
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup condensed milk
A pinch of saffron strands
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
Chopped nuts for garnish (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
Ghee (clarified butter) for roasting nuts

Instructions

- Begin by rinsing the rice thoroughly under running water. Then, soak the rice in enough water for about 20 minutes. This step ensures that the rice cooks evenly.

- While the rice is soaking, peel and grate the carrots finely. Set them aside.

- Warm a tablespoon of milk and add a pinch of saffron strands to it. Allow it to steep while you proceed with the next steps. This will infuse the milk with a lovely saffron color and aroma.

- Drain the soaked rice and transfer it to a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add 2 cups of milk and cook the rice over medium-low heat until it turns soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

- Incorporate the grated carrots into the cooked rice and milk mixture. Continue to cook until the carrots become tender and blend well with the rice.

- Add sugar and condensed milk to the mixture, adjusting the sweetness to your preference. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

- Sprinkle cardamom powder into the kheer for a delightful aroma and flavor. Mix it well.

- Pour in the fresh orange juice and stir it into the kheer. The citrusy tang of the oranges will add a refreshing twist to the dessert.

- Add the saffron-infused milk to the kheer, giving it a beautiful saffron hue and a subtle fragrance.

- In a separate small pan, heat ghee and roast the chopped nuts until they turn golden brown. Sprinkle the roasted nuts over the Orange Carrot Kheer for added flavor and crunch.

- You can serve this delightful dessert either chilled or warm, depending on your preference. Garnish with a few saffron strands for an elegant touch.