Shevayinchi Kheer
A classic Maharashtrian dessert featuring delicate roasted vermicelli simmered in sweet, creamy milk. Flavored with cardamom and garnished with crunchy nuts, this kheer is a comforting treat for any celebration.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Flavorings and Nuts
- b.If using saffron, soak the strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk and set aside. This helps release its color and aroma.
- c.Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- d.Add the chopped cashews and almonds. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn light golden and fragrant.
- e.Add the raisins and sauté for another 30 seconds until they plump up. Be careful not to burn them.
- f.Remove the toasted nuts and raisins with a slotted spoon and keep them aside for garnish.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Roast the Vermicelli
- b.In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee.
- c.Add the broken vermicelli and roast on low-medium heat, stirring continuously.
- d.Roast for about 3-4 minutes until the vermicelli turns a deep golden brown. This step is crucial for a non-sticky kheer with a nutty aroma.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Kheer
- b.Carefully pour the milk into the pan with the roasted vermicelli. Stir immediately to prevent lumps.
- c.Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the milk to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- d.Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- e.Stir every few minutes to prevent the kheer from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook until the vermicelli is soft and well-cooked.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Sweetness and Aromatics
- b.Once the vermicelli is cooked, add the sugar and stir well until it dissolves completely.
- c.Add the cardamom powder and the saffron-infused milk to the kheer. Mix well.
- d.Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld together. The kheer will thicken slightly.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the reserved toasted nuts and raisins.
- c.Transfer the Shevayinchi Kheer to serving bowls.
- d.Garnish with the remaining nuts and raisins.
- e.Serve warm for a comforting treat, or chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours and serve cold.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and texture, always use full-fat milk. It makes the kheer rich and creamy.
- 2Roasting the vermicelli until it's a deep golden brown is key to preventing it from becoming mushy and sticky.
- 3Stir the kheer frequently while it simmers to ensure it doesn't scorch at the bottom of the pan.
- 4The kheer thickens as it cools. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of warm milk before serving.
- 5To save time, you can use pre-roasted vermicelli, but roasting it fresh in ghee adds a wonderful aroma.
- 6For a richer taste, add 2-3 tablespoons of condensed milk and reduce the sugar accordingly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan Version
Substitute full-fat milk with creamy plant-based milk like oat milk or full-fat coconut milk. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of ghee.
Richer KheerRicher Kheer
For an even richer and thicker kheer, add 2 tablespoons of khoya (milk solids) or milk powder along with the sugar.
Nutty DelightNutty Delight
Incorporate other nuts like pistachios and charoli (chironji) for a more complex texture and flavor. Add them along with the cashews and almonds.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
After the kheer has cooled down slightly, stir in finely chopped fruits like mango, banana, or pomegranate arils for a fresh and fruity flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Instant Energy
The combination of carbohydrates from vermicelli and sugar provides a quick source of energy, making it a satisfying dessert after a meal.
Rich in Calcium
Made with a significant amount of milk, this kheer is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Source of Healthy Fats
The use of ghee, cashews, and almonds adds healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and provide sustained energy.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Shevayinchi Kheer contains approximately 440-460 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the type of milk, amount of sugar, and quantity of nuts used.