# Carrot Kheer Recipe: An Exquisite Indian Sweet
As we welcome a new year, there’s no better way to commemorate the occasion than with a delightful Indian sweet! Carrot Kheer, fondly referred to as Gajar Ki Kheer, is a timeless dessert that merges the inherent sweetness of carrots with the creaminess of milk and the crunch of almonds. This luscious pudding is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it ideal for special occasions such as New Year’s and Diwali.
## Ingredients
To craft this scrumptious dessert, you will require the following components:
– **500 grams of Delhi red carrots** (or any alternative variety)
– **1 liter of full-fat milk** (or skimmed milk, if preferred)
– **1 cup of sugar** (adjust according to taste)
– **1/4 cup of blanched almonds** (finely ground)
– **1/4 cup of ghee** (clarified butter)
– **4-5 green cardamom pods** (crushed)
– **Chopped nuts** (for garnish, optional)
## Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
1. **Wash and Peel**: Begin by thoroughly washing the carrots. Peel them and then grate finely. The Delhi red carrots are especially sweet and juicy, making them perfect for this dish.
### Step 2: Sauté the Carrots
2. **Heat Ghee**: In a sturdy pan, warm the ghee over medium heat.
3. **Sauté Carrots**: Add the grated carrots to the pan and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and exude their natural sweetness. This step intensifies the flavor of the carrots.
### Step 3: Cook with Milk
4. **Add Milk**: Pour in the milk and let the mixture come to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to keep the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. **Add Sugar and Cardamom**: After around 15-20 minutes of simmering, incorporate the sugar and crushed cardamom. Keep cooking until the kheer reaches your desired thickness, which may take another 15-20 minutes.
### Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
6. **Blend the Mixture**: For a creamier texture, consider taking a portion of the kheer and blending it into a smooth paste. Return it to the pan and stir well. This is optional but lends a delightful creaminess to the kheer.
### Step 5: Add Almonds
7. **Incorporate Ground Almonds**: Mix in the ground blanched almonds, which will impart a nutty flavor and smooth texture to the kheer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
### Step 6: Serve
8. **Garnish and Serve**: Once the kheer has reached your chosen consistency, remove it from heat. Enhance with chopped nuts if desired. Serve warm or chilled, based on your preference.
## Nutritional Benefits
Carrot Kheer is not merely a delectable treat; it also offers considerable nutritional value. Carrots are abundant in beta-carotene, beneficial for eye health, and provide essential vitamins and minerals. The milk adds calcium and protein, while almonds offer healthy fats and vitamin E.
## Conclusion
Carrot Kheer is a wonderful way to celebrate special events and indulge in a sweet delight. Its creamy consistency, aromatic spices, and nutty essence make it a beloved choice for many. Whether you’re welcoming the New Year or honoring any festive celebration, this dessert is sure to charm your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and attempt this easy yet delicious recipe for a slice of Indian tradition! Enjoy your cooking and may the new year be filled with blessings!