Quick & Easy Jhangora Ki Kheer Recipe for Sweet Cravings

When you’re in the mood for something sweet, it’s tempting to reach for a store-bought dessert or something simple like a chocolate bar. But if you want a tasty, traditional, and healthy sweet treat, why not try making Jhangora Ki Kheer? This delicious Indian dessert is simple to prepare and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

What is Jhangora?

Jhangora, also called Barnyard Millet, is a small grain that is popular in the hilly areas of India, especially in Uttarakhand. It is very healthy because it has a lot of fiber, protein, and important minerals like iron and magnesium. Jhangora is also gluten-free, which means it’s a great option for people who can’t eat gluten or have celiac disease.

The Magic of Jhangora Ki Kheer

Jhangora Ki Kheer is a traditional Indian pudding made with barnyard millet, milk, and sugar. It’s flavored with cardamom and topped with nuts and dried fruits. It’s a dish that’s often made during festivals, fasting periods, or special occasions. The creamy milk and slightly chewy millet make it a tasty and enjoyable dessert.

Ingredients

To make Jhangora Ki Kheer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Jhangora (Barnyard Millet)
• 1 liter full cream milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon green cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• A few strands of saffron (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
• 1/4 cup water

Equipment Needed

To make Jhangora Ki Kheer, you will need the following equipment:

• Heavy-bottomed pan
• Medium-sized pan
• Ladle or wooden spoon
• Small bowl (for soaking saffron, if using)
• Strainer or colander (for washing and draining Jhangora)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small pan (for roasting nuts and raisins)
• Knife (for chopping nuts)
• Cutting board (for chopping nuts)
• Serving bowls

Step-by-Step Jhangora Ki Kheer Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Jhangora

Begin by washing the Jhangora thoroughly under running water. Soak it in water for about 20-30 minutes. This will help in softening the millet and speeding up the cooking process.

Step 2: Boiling the Milk

In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil. It’s important to use full cream milk for a richer and creamier kheer. Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

Step 3: Cooking the Jhangora

In another pan, heat the ghee and add the soaked and drained Jhangora. Roast the millet for a few minutes until it turns slightly golden and emits a nutty aroma. Roasting enhances the flavor of the millet and prevents it from sticking together.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients

Add the roasted Jhangora to the simmering milk. Stir well to ensure the millet is evenly distributed in the milk. Let it cook on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Adding Flavor

Once the millet is cooked and the milk has thickened to a creamy consistency, add sugar and stir well until it dissolves. Then, add the cardamom powder for a fragrant touch. If you like, you can also add a few strands of saffron soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk at this stage. Saffron not only adds a beautiful color but also imparts a unique flavor to the kheer.

Step 6: Garnishing

In a small pan, heat a little ghee and roast the chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins until they turn golden. Add these roasted nuts and raisins to the kheer, reserving a few for garnishing.

Serving Suggestions

Jhangora Ki Kheer can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Warm or Chilled:
   • Warm: Serve the kheer warm for a comforting and cozy dessert, especially during colder months.
   • Chilled: Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat, particularly during hot summer days. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
2. Garnish:
   • Garnish with additional roasted nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) and raisins for added crunch and flavor.
   • Add a few strands of saffron on top for an elegant touch and enhanced aroma.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of edible rose petals for a fragrant and decorative garnish.
3. Accompaniments:
   • Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
   • Pair with fresh fruits like mango slices, berries, or pomegranate seeds for a burst of freshness and color.
4. Festive Presentation:
   • Serve in traditional Indian bowls or clay pots for an authentic and rustic presentation, perfect for festive occasions.
   • Use decorative serving dishes or glass bowls to showcase the creamy texture and garnishes.
5. Complementary Desserts:
   • Pair with other Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, or Rasgulla for a dessert platter that offers a variety of flavors and textures.
   • Serve with a side of crispy Pooris or Malpua for a contrasting combination of soft and crispy textures.
6. Infused Flavors:
   • Add a hint of rose water or kewra water for a floral note that complements the cardamom flavor.
   • Incorporate a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an additional layer of flavor.
7. Layered Dessert:
   • Create a layered dessert by alternating layers of Jhangora Ki Kheer with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or crushed nuts in a glass or dessert cup.
8. Fasting Special:
   • Serve Jhangora Ki Kheer during fasting periods or religious festivals as a wholesome and satisfying dessert that aligns with dietary restrictions.

By exploring these serving suggestions, you can elevate the experience of enjoying Jhangora Ki Kheer and impress your guests with a delightful and versatile dessert.

Tips for Perfect Jhangora Ki Kheer

1. Consistency: The consistency of the kheer depends on your preference. If you like a thicker kheer, cook it longer to reduce the milk further. If you prefer it more liquid, you can add a little more milk towards the end.
2. Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. You can also use alternative sweeteners like jaggery or honey for a different flavor profile.
3. Nuts and Dried Fruits: Feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits. Pistachios, dried apricots, and dates can also be added for a richer taste.
4. Flavor Variations: Besides cardamom, you can also flavor the kheer with rose water or kewra water for a floral note.
5. Health Boost: To make the kheer even more nutritious, you can add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds while cooking.

Conclusion

Jhangora Ki Kheer is a fast and easy dessert that not only tastes great but is also good for you. Its creamy texture, yummy flavor, and wonderful smell make it a great treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. So, next time you want something sweet, try making Jhangora Ki Kheer for a tasty and healthy Indian dessert.

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