Carrot Kheer

Carrot kheer, also known as carrot payasam, is a sweet and creamy Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and aromatic spices. Here's a recipe for carrot kheer:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups grated carrots
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• 1/4 cup condensed milk (optional, for added richness)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios)
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• A pinch of saffron strands (optional, for garnish)
• A few strands of chopped nuts (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or a kadai over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they turn slightly soft and release their aroma.
2. Add the milk to the pan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the carrots cook in the milk until they become tender and the milk thickens, stirring occasionally. This process will take about 30-40 minutes.
3. Once the carrots are cooked and the milk has thickened, add the sugar and condensed milk (if using). Stir well to dissolve the sugar and allow the kheer to simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cardamom powder, chopped nuts, and raisins to the kheer. Mix well and let it simmer for another minute or two.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let the carrot kheer cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
6. Once cooled, you can serve the carrot kheer chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with saffron strands and chopped nuts for an added touch of elegance.

Carrot kheer is a delightful dessert with its natural sweetness and the goodness of carrots. It can be served as a festive dessert or enjoyed as a sweet treat any time of the year. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful carrot kheer!