Oats Free Kheer
Few desserts are as deeply comforting as this slow-simmered Indian rice pudding, fragrant with saffron, cardamom, and a whisper of rose water. Whole milk and basmati rice are cooked low and slow until the mixture thickens into something silky and luxurious, with a pale golden hue that's almost too pretty to eat. Butter-toasted cashews and almonds add a warm, nutty crunch, while plump golden raisins and optional pistachios make every spoonful feel a little celebratory. The ingredient list is naturally free of grains like oats — no swaps or substitutions needed, just pantry staples doing exactly what they're supposed to do. It works beautifully served warm straight from the pot, at room temperature, or chilled the next day when the flavors have had time to deepen even further. This is the kind of recipe that feels special enough for a dinner party but simple enough to make on a quiet weeknight when you just want something sweet and satisfying.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 5 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup basmati rice, rinsed
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp raw cashews, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp raw almonds, slivered or roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp golden raisins
- 1 tsp rose water
For serving
- 1 tbsp pistachios, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the milk and rinsed basmati rice in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom.
- 2
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring every 2–3 minutes and scraping the bottom and sides of the pan, until the milk has reduced by roughly half and the rice is completely soft and the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 35–40 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!