Almond Quinoa Kheer with Saffron
Best For An Occasional Treat
Can you imagine eating kheer that is healthy? No sugar, no milk, no ghee, just wholesome ingredients, straight from nature. Instead of fat laden pastries and cookies, serve your guests this healthy dessert. Tell them to guess what it’s made of & I promise, they’ll be surprised!
INGREDIENTS
SERVES 4-5,
MAKES 1 liter
• 1 cup soaked almonds
• ½ cup quinoa
• 3½ cups water
• 6 tablespoons powdered jaggery
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
• 20 strands of saffron (approx.)
• ⅛ teaspoon rock salt
Topping
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
• 1 tablespoon raisins
PRE-PREPARATION
Soak the almonds in water for about 6 hours. After soaking peel the almonds
Method
1.Place the quinoa in a saucepan with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Then, let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the quinoa is fully cooked.
2. Meanwhile, add the peeled almonds and 1½ cups water to a blender and blend until very smooth.
3. Add jaggery, cardamom, saffron and salt and blend again.
4. Pour this mixture in a bowl, add the boiled quinoa and stir well. This is your kheer.
5. Place it in a refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The quinoa will swell up and the kheer will get a little thick.
6. Top it with almonds, pistachios and raisins and serve.
Benefits:
- Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, promoting heart health and skin health.
- Quinoa is a gluten-free whole grain rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.
- Saffron adds a unique flavor and aroma along with potential health benefits, including mood enhancement and antioxidant properties.
- Jaggery serves as a natural sweetener, offering minerals like iron and potassium, with a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar.
- Topping with nuts and raisins provides additional protein, fiber, and micronutrients, contributing to overall health and satiety.
Nutritive Value:
- Almonds: Rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and protein, supporting heart health and providing essential nutrients.
- Quinoa: High in protein, fiber, iron, and magnesium, aiding in digestion, blood sugar control, and energy production.
- Saffron: Contains antioxidants like crocin and safranal, with potential anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing effects.
- Jaggery: Supplies iron, potassium, and other minerals, serving as a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
- Nuts and raisins: Offer additional protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, enhancing the nutritional profile of the dessert.
March 7, 2024
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