# Carrot Kheer Recipe: A Delicious Indian Sweet
Carrot Kheer, referred to as Gajar Ki Kheer, is a scrumptious Indian sweet that merges the inherent sweetness of carrots with the creaminess of milk and the crunchiness of almonds. This velvety pudding is particularly favored during festive times like New Year’s and Diwali, making it an ideal delicacy to honor special occasions.
## Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized Delhi red carrots (or any sweet variety)
– 1 liter full-fat milk (or skimmed milk)
– 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to preference)
– 1/4 cup blanched almonds (finely ground)
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 4-5 green cardamom pods (crushed)
– A handful of chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
## Instructions
1. **Preparation of Carrots**: Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Grate them using a grater or a food processor for ease.
2. **Sautéing Carrots**: In a heavy-bottomed pot, warm the ghee over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and emit their fragrance.
3. **Cooking in Milk**: Pour the milk into the pot containing the sautéed carrots. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to stop the milk from sticking to the bottom.
4. **Sweetening the Kheer**: After the milk has reduced and thickened a bit, incorporate the sugar and ground almonds. Mix thoroughly and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the kheer achieves your desired thickness.
5. **Flavoring**: Add the crushed cardamom pods to the kheer and mix well. This will impart a warm, aromatic flavor to the dessert.
6. **Garnishing**: Once the kheer is done, take it off the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Serve it warm or chilled, topped with chopped nuts for extra crunch.
## Tips for Perfect Carrot Kheer
– **Carrot Selection**: Choose fresh, tender carrots for optimal flavor. Delhi red carrots are especially sweet and perfect for this dish.
– **Milk Choice**: Full-fat milk offers a richer taste and creamier texture, though skimmed milk can also be used for a lighter option.
– **Consistency**: Modify the thickness of the kheer by adjusting the cooking time. For a thicker kheer, simmer it longer to decrease the milk further.
## Nutritional Benefits
Carrot Kheer is not only delectable but also rich in nutrients. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is good for eye health, and the inclusion of almonds supplies healthy fats and protein. This dessert is a nutritious way to satisfy your sweet cravings while benefiting from its components.
## Conclusion
Carrot Kheer is a treasure among Indian desserts, presenting a distinctive mix of flavors and textures. Its creamy texture, paired with the sweetness of carrots and the crunch of almonds, creates an irresistible delicacy. Whether you’re commemorating a significant event or simply wish to relish a comforting dessert, this recipe is bound to delight. Relish your homemade Carrot Kheer and share it with loved ones for a genuinely delightful experience!