Green Cardamom Rice Pudding Recipe by ( Garni foods )

Experience a delightful blend of aromatic Green Cardamom, creamy rice, and the subtle sweetness of milk with this traditional Green Cardamom Rice Pudding. Known as Elaichi or Chhoti Elaichi in Hindi, Green Cardamom is a versatile spice that adds a unique flavor to this dessert. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to make this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 8-10 pods of Whole Green Cardamom (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• A few strands of saffron (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps in removing excess starch.
   • Soak the rice in 1 cup of water for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Cooking the Rice:

   • In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the drained rice and cook for 5-7 minutes until the rice starts to soften.
   • Add 4 cups of whole milk to the saucepan. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

3. Infusing the Green Cardamom:

   • Add the crushed Whole Green Cardamom pods to the milk and rice mixture. The pods will infuse their flavor as the pudding cooks.
   • Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

4. Sweetening and Flavoring:

   • After about 30 minutes, when the rice is fully cooked and the milk has thickened, add the sugar and salt. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
   • Sprinkle in the Cardamom powder for an extra layer of Elaichi flavor.
   • If using, add the saffron strands soaked in a little warm milk to give a lovely color and aroma.
   • Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick and creamy.

5. Adding Nuts and Raisins:

   • Stir in the sliced almonds and raisins if using. They add a nice texture and flavor to the pudding.
   • You can also add rose water at this stage for a fragrant touch.

6. Serving:

   • Remove the Green Cardamom Rice Pudding from heat and let it cool slightly. The pudding will thicken as it cools.
   • Serve warm or chilled, as per your preference.

7. Garnishing:

   • Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and freshness.
   • You can also sprinkle some more Cardamom powder on top if you like a stronger Elaichi flavor.

Tips:

• Ensure you stir the pudding regularly to prevent it from sticking and burning.
• Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Some people prefer a less sweet pudding.
• For a richer pudding, you can substitute a part of the milk with cream.

Enjoy this delightful Green Cardamom Rice Pudding as a perfect end to any meal. The warmth of Chhoti Elaichi or Hari Elaichi combined with the creamy texture of the pudding will surely make it a favorite in your dessert repertoire.