While you may have consumed traditional sago and barnyard millet kheer numerous times during fasts, today we are introducing you to an exceptionally nutritious, quick-to-make, and flavor-packed kheer recipe that will elevate your fasting diet. This unique kheer offers a rich flavor reminiscent of fruit cream. Adding fresh fruits multiplies its nutritional value multifold. Consuming just a single bowl of this kheer during fasting keeps your stomach full for a long time and prevents any fatigue or weakness throughout the day. Make sure to prepare this delicious Rajgira fruit kheer during your Navratri fasts as the recipe is quite simple and keeps your body brimming with energy.
Initial Preparation of Soaking Almonds and Rajgira
To begin this wonderful recipe, start by soaking 10 to 12 almonds in water and leave them aside for a while. Next, you need the primary ingredient, which is Rajgira or amaranth grains. Take about half a cup of Rajgira and wash it thoroughly with water. Place it in a strainer so that all the excess water drains out completely. After draining, leave this soaked Rajgira in water for half an hour so it softens up properly for cooking.
Boiling Milk and Preparing Almond Paste
In the next step, take 3 cups of thick milk in a heavy-bottomed kadhai and put it on the stove to boil. You can use either boiled or raw milk according to your preference. Now, peel the soaked almonds and place them in a mixer jar. Add a quarter cup of milk to the jar and grind the almonds into a fine paste. Once the milk in the kadhai is hot, mix in this almond paste. Following that, add the soaked Rajgira into the milk and cook it well.
Cooking Rajgira with Dry Fruits and Rock Sugar
Continue cooking the Rajgira until it softens completely. At this stage, you can also add your favorite dry fruits such as cashews, pistachios, chiraji, and raisins to enhance the flavor. To sweeten the kheer, use rock sugar instead of refined sugar. You can either grind the rock sugar into a powder or crush it into small pieces before adding it. Cook the Rajgira until it achieves a texture similar to sago pearls.
Mixing Fruits and Cardamom Before Chilling
Once the kheer becomes thick and creamy, turn off the heat and allow it to cool down completely. When it reaches room temperature, it is time to add the fruits. Finely chop apples, pomegranates, apricots, and bananas, and mix them into the cooled kheer. Sprinkle freshly powdered green cardamom on top for a wonderful aroma and taste. Place this prepared kheer in the refrigerator to chill thoroughly.
Transfer it into a serving bowl and optionally garnish the top with a bit of tutti frutti. Serve this kheer nice and chilled. It offers a delightful taste and provides abundant energy to the body. For individuals looking for gluten-free dietary options during religious fasts, this fruit kheer serves as an exceptionally healthy and satisfying choice.
