Creamy and Aromatic Sweet Rice
Introduction
This recipe for sweet rice, or "meetha chawal" in Hindi, is a popular Indian dessert that's often served on special occasions. The combination of fragrant basmati rice, sweet syrup, and a medley of dry fruits creates a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 1/3 cup dry fruit mix (almonds, cashew nuts, raisins, dry coconut pieces)
- Whole spice mix:
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 2 pinches of saffron
- 1/8 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
Pressure Cooker Method
- Sauté spices and dry fruits: Heat ghee in a pressure cooker over low heat. Add the whole spices and dry fruit mix, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add rice and other ingredients: Add the soaked rice, water, saffron, and turmeric to the cooker. Gently stir to combine.
- Pressure cook: Close the cooker and pressure cook on high heat until one whistle. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
- Fluff and serve: Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and fluff the rice. If the rice is still slightly stiff, add a little more water and pressure cook on low heat for a few minutes, then let the pressure release naturally again.
Stovetop Method
- Sauté spices and dry fruits: Heat ghee in a pan over low heat. Add the whole spices and dry fruit mix, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add liquid and rice: Add the water, sugar, saffron, and turmeric to the pan. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer until cooked: Add the soaked rice and gently stir to combine. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Tips:
- For a sweeter rice, increase the amount of sugar.
- To make the rice creamier, add a splash of milk or heavy cream after cooking.
- Serve this sweet rice warm or cold as a dessert or snack.
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