The 15th day of Shrawan is a significant date in the Nepali calendar. This day is joyfully celebrated as Kheer Khane Din, or Rice Pudding Day. This day celebrates the efforts and accomplishments of farmers as it marks the end of the rice planting season.

On this day, for every Nepali household, the day starts with the preparation of a special rice pudding, locally known as kheer. This sweet delicacy is not only a culinary delight but also holds religious significance. Traditionally, kheer is offered to the god as a symbol of purity before being shared among family members.

Likewise, the act of sharing kheer is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the household. Additionally, families often gather together to enjoy this delicious dessert as a way to bond and celebrate the accomplishments of farmers, who worked hard. As Nepal is an agricultural country, the plantation season holds great importance, and celebrating with kheer is a way to thank the grains provided by the land.

Now let’s learn how to make this classic Nepali kheer.
To prepare for Shrawan 15, you need a few essential ingredients and supplies. Here’s a checklist to get you started.
1. Rice: It is the main ingredient for Kheer. You need long-grain rice, such as Basmati, for its fragrance and texture.
2. Milk: Fresh whole milk is essential for a creamy and rich Kheer.
3. Sugar: To sweeten the Kheer, use sugar or use according to your preference.
4. Cardamom: This spice adds a fragrant aroma and unique flavor to the pudding.
5. Nuts and Dried Fruits: Almonds, cashews, raisins, and pistachios are commonly used to garnish Kheer.
6. Saffron: A pinch of saffron strands will give your Kheer a luxurious golden hue and enhance its flavor.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make Kheer for Shrawan 15:

Ingredients:
-1 cup Basmati rice
-4 cups whole milk
-1 cup sugar or according to your taste
-1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
-2 tablespoons chopped fried almonds, raisins and cashews
-A pinch of saffron strands
-1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)

Instructions:
Wash and Soak Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This helps in cooking the rice evenly.

Boil Milk: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Cook the Rice: Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk. Cook the rice on a low flame, stirring frequently, until it is soft and the milk has thickened. This may take about 30-40 minutes.

Sweeten the Kheer: Once the rice is cooked, add sugar, and stir well until dissolved. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Add Flavors: Stir in cardamom powder and saffron strands. These ingredients give the Kheer its distinctive flavor and aroma.

Garnish with Nuts and Fruits: In a small pan, heat ghee and fry the chopped nuts and raisins until golden brown. Add them to the Kheer and mix well.

Serve: Let the Kheer cool down to room temperature or refrigerate it for a few hours before serving. Kheer can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on your preference.

Shrawan 15 is more than just a day to enjoy the delicious kheer. It is a celebration of unity, gratitude, and the sweetness of life. You can create a memorable kheer that will delight your family and friends by following these guidelines. Happy Shrawan 15th!

Picture Credit: Ajaykampani, Lazartivan, ArtistGNDphotography, Indian Veggie Delight, Forclick Studio

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