Semiya or Vermicelli Kheer is a delicious Indian dessert made with vermicelli (thin noodles), milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. Here’s a simple recipe to make Vermicelli Kheer:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vermicelli (semiya)
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios, etc.)
- Raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Heat ghee in a pan and fry the vermicelli over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Keep stirring continuously to ensure even browning. Once done, remove the vermicelli from the pan and set it aside.
- Boil Milk:
- In the same pan, pour the milk and bring it to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Vermicelli:
- Once the milk starts boiling, add the fried vermicelli to it. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat.
- Cook Vermicelli:
- Allow the vermicelli to cook in the milk until it becomes soft and the milk thickens slightly. Keep stirring intermittently to avoid sticking.
- Add Sugar and Flavorings:
- Once the vermicelli is cooked and the milk has reduced to your desired consistency, add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands (if using). Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Roast Nuts:
- In a separate small pan, roast the chopped nuts in a little ghee until they turn golden brown. Add raisins if using and roast for another minute. Remove from heat.
- Final Touch:
- Add the roasted nuts and raisins to the kheer. Stir well and let it simmer for another minute.
- Serve:
- Turn off the heat and let the kheer cool down for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm or chilled, as per your preference.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with some more chopped nuts and saffron strands before serving for an extra touch.
Enjoy your delicious Semiya (Vermicelli Kheer)!