Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Paal Payasam, a traditional South Indian rice pudding that's the epitome of festive desserts. Slow-cooked to perfection, this classic dish is made with fragrant short-grain rice, simmered in full-fat milk until luxuriously thickened, and sweetened with sugar for just the right touch of sweetness. A hint of cardamom infuses the pudding with warm, aromatic depth, while golden-fried cashews and plump raisins add texture and a touch of nutty sweetness. Perfect for celebrations or as a soul-satisfying dessert, Paal Payasam can be served warm for cozy indulgence or chilled for a refreshing treat. Simple yet decadent, this recipe captures the timeless essence of Indian comfort food, making it a must-try for anyone seeking authentic and flavorful Indian desserts.
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, and set aside.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom or forming a skin.
Add the washed rice to the milk and reduce the heat to low. Stir well to ensure the rice does not clump together.
Cook the rice in the milk on low heat, stirring frequently. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken over 40-50 minutes, or until the rice is completely cooked and the milk has reduced and taken on a creamy consistency.
Lightly crush the cardamom pods to release their flavor, then add them to the mixture.
Stir in the sugar and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and is well incorporated.
In a small pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cashews and fry until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Then, add the raisins to the same pan and fry until they puff up. Remove from heat.
Add the fried cashews and raisins to the payasam and mix well.
Turn off the heat, and let the payasam cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled as desired.
Calories |
1469 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 54.8 g | 70% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.4 g | 147% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 160 mg | 53% | |
| Sodium | 400 mg | 17% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 204.2 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 159.5 g | ||
| Protein | 40.1 g | 80% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.3 mcg | 57% | |
| Calcium | 1293 mg | 99% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 1766 mg | 38% | |
*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.