Kheer (Dessert of the Day)

Dessert of the Day calls this "spiced basmati rice pudding", which isn't wrong. That's what kheer is. It's a thin, creamy, basmati rice pudding with spices (and often almonds and/or pistachios).

Kheer

Slightly adapted from Dessert of the Day by Kim Laidlaw

Ingredients

• 8 c. whole (3.25%) milk
• 8 green cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• 1/2 c. basmati rice
• 1/2 c. sugar
• 1/4 tsp. coarse sea salt
• 2 Tbsp. slivered almonds
• 2 Tbsp. chopped pistachios
• 3 Tbsp. golden raisins
• pinch of saffron

Directions

1. Combine milk, cardamom, cinnamon (if using), rice, sugar, and salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced (60-80 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, lightly toast the almonds and pistachios.
4. Add the toasted nuts, raisins, and saffron and cook for another 5-10 minutes.
5. Serve hot or cold.