Dairy-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Dairy-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh, a plant-based twist on the iconic rice pudding from Bengal. Made with aromatic Gobindobhog rice and velvety coconut milk, this recipe replicates the authentic flavors of the beloved dessert without using dairy. Sweetened naturally with jaggery, it boasts a subtly caramelized depth, enhanced by fragrant cardamom and bay leaf. Optional garnishes of roasted cashews and raisins add a delightful crunch and sweetness, taking this comfort dessert to the next level. Perfect for festive celebrations, special occasions, or cozy evenings, this vegan Bengali payesh is easy to make and irresistibly satisfying. Serve it warm or chilled and savor every spoonful of this dairy-free masterpiece!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 0.5 cups Gobindobhog rice (or any short-grain aromatic rice)
- 2 cups Coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1 cup Water
- 0.5 cups Jaggery (grated or powdered)
- 4 whole Cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
- 1 whole Bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons Cashews (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the Gobindobhog rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the coconut milk and water. Add the bay leaf and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Once the mixture starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the washed rice. Stir well to distribute evenly.
Cook the rice on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it is fully cooked and starts to break down slightly. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
After the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf. Add the crushed cardamom pods and jaggery. Stir the mixture constantly until the jaggery dissolves completely.
Allow the payesh to simmer for another 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
If using, roast the cashews and raisins in a small pan with a bit of oil or on dry heat until golden and fragrant.
Remove the payesh from heat and garnish with roasted cashews and raisins (if desired).
Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy your dairy-free Bengali payesh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1876 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.0 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 103.5 g | 518% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 126 mg | 5% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 199.6 g | 73% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.1 g | 47% | |
| Total Sugars | 150.9 g | ||
| Protein | 17.2 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 236 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 31.1 mg | 173% | |
| Potassium | 2914 mg | 62% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
