Almond raisin payasam is rich, creamy and a milk-based pudding. It is a traditional Indian dessert made especially during festivals or celebrations. This particular recipe is quite similar to the traditional rice-based kheer, but the rice is replaced by almond paste here. What makes almond raisin payasam extra special is that these two ingredients are excellent at reducing body heat. Since the sweltering heat has already begun, it is important to eat the right kind of foods that can help with digestion and also keep the body cool. Almonds and raisins are also known to tackle problems like acidity. The ingredients needed to make almond raisin payasam are: ½ cup overnight-soaked almonds and raisins each, 1 tablespoon of soaked basil (sabja) seeds, 5-6 cups of coconut milk, sugar, cashew nuts, pistachios or walnuts for garnishing. You will also need 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder, 5-6 saffron (kesar) strands, and mawa as well for enhanced taste.
Recipe:
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The first step is to add coconut milk to a vessel and add saffron strands to it. Make sure to keep the heat on medium flame.
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As the milk begins to boil, bring down the heat and let the milk thicken.
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Meanwhile, pulse the soaked almonds in a grinder with two tablespoons of water or coconut milk and then add the paste to the milk.
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Stir properly till the milk turns creamy and thick.
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You can add crumbled khoya or choose to skip this step entirely.
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The next step is to add sugar and stir it continuously. Add cardamom powder and stir again.
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Finally, add the dried fruits and other garnishings except for the raisins.
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When the payasam is at room temperature, add the soaked basil seeds and raisins. Adding soaked raisins to hot milk may curdle it.
You can also make this recipe without heating the milk at all. All you need to do is mix the soaked ingredients with milk, add sugar and stir till it dissolves, then add the garnish.
This way, you can make the perfect and healthy payasam quickly at home. You can eat it warm or chill it and serve it. The almond-raisin payasam will become an instant hit in your household and kids will absolutely fall in love. It will also help in beating the heat this summer.
