The News Craving
Dr. Kaviraj Khialani
A nut is a fruit consisting of a hard or tough nutshell protecting a kernel which is usually edible. In general usage and in a culinary sense, a wide variety of dry seeds are called nuts, but in a botanical context “nut” implies that the shell does not open to release the seed. Nuts are awesomely versatile. They’re an easy portable snack, delicious on salads and have endless uses in a variety of cuisines.
They’re also nutritional superstars, packed with protein and healthy fats. Nuts are small parcels of good health. While they do contain fat, they’re also rich in nutrients that benefit all-round health. So which ones are the best? That’s a tough one. Some argue in favour of almonds, cashews and pistachios.
An ounce of each of these contains 160 calories, 5-6 grams of protein, and 13-14 grams of fat. On the other hand, macadamias and pecans are not as healthy. They contain about one third the protein of other nuts, but nearly twice the amount of fat. Each macadamia nut has 20 calories, but they do still have health benefits when eaten in moderation.
Nuts are widely touted for their great taste and convenience, but their taste isn’t the only thing that makes them popular. Scientists have long touted the health benefits of making nuts a regular part of your diet. There are many varieties of nuts. Raw mixed nuts usually contain a range of almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, and more. They’re readily available at almost any grocery store/ suprermarket and pack a serious nutritional punch.
Facts about few of the Popular Nuts!
Walnuts are among the best nuts for your heart. Though nuts in general have omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts also have high levels of alpha linoleic acid (ALA), which is said to reduce heart arrhythmia. Some studies have shown that, like olive oil, walnuts can reduce inflammation and oxidation in arteries after a meal. Eight walnuts a day is the recommended serving.
Brazil nuts & Pecans: These are both particularly good for men. The former is a rich source of the mineral selenium, which is said to protect men against prostate cancer and other diseases–just one a day is enough. An excess of Brazil nuts may increase the risk of type-2 diabetes, so don’t overdo it. Pecans have a plant steroid called betasitosteral, which eases the symptoms of an enlarged prostrate.
Peanuts: Did you know peanuts are not really nuts, but in fact legumes? Still, most people consider them nuts. They have high folate content, which helps brain development and inhibits the decline of cognitive functions. This makes them perfect for vegetarians, whose diets are short on the mineral. Peanuts are also good for pregnant women, and like actual nuts, they have an abundance of healthy fats and vitamin E.
Almonds: One of the best nuts to prevent disease, they are high in calcium, low in calories, and rich in fibre and vitamin E. That last nutrient acts as an antioxidant that combats inflammation and serious health conditions, like lung cancer and age-related cognitive decline.
Hazelnuts: One of the most popular flavouring agents whether in coffee or spreads, hazelnuts aren’t just delicious. They have a good amount of monounsaturated fat, which works to regulate heart health and blood sugar. We’re all aware of the benefits of foods that contain vitamin E, and hazelnuts are yet another great source.
Pistachios: Fun to crack and eat, pistachios are great, especially for someone looking to stay fit. They are among the lowest-calorie nuts, so they won’t pack on the pounds. Pistachios are also full of potassium, which helps maintain nerve and muscle health.
Here are a few Health Benefits of NUTS:
Nuts are a nutritionally rich food, containing most of the vitamins and minerals the body needs. They’re one of the main sources of omega-3 fatty acids, offering a range of health benefits from reducing rheumatoid arthritis to protecting against Alzheimer’s and dementia.
HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS: Nuts are largely composed of fats, which might seem counterintuitive for weight loss. However, the fats in nuts are almost entirely unsaturated, which means they leave you feeling more satisfied after eating, helping you eat less over time. Studies have even found that people who eat nuts frequently are at a lower risk of gaining weight than those who seldom eat nuts.
HELPS CONTROL DIABETES: as per studies done by a few scientists found impressive reasons for recommending regular nut consumption as a way to manage diabetes. In a controlled study, people with type 2 diabetes who ate more than five servings of nuts per week lowered their risk of heart disease by as much as 17%.
PREVENTS HEART DISEASE & REGULATES CHOLESTROL LEVELS: There have been many studies showing the beneficial effects of nuts on heart health. Eating nuts at least four times per week is correlated with fewer cases of coronary heart disease. Nuts also play an important role in regulating cholesterol. Scientists have found a direct correlation between eating nuts at least a few times per week and the reduction of LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. Improved cholesterol is associated with less risk of stroke or cardiovascular disease.
Here are a few of my favorite recipes using nuts for all our readers to try out and benefit from the goodness of NUTS!
Recipe-1] BADAM AUR AKHROAT WALI KHEER
Ingredients:
Milk- 500 ml
Rice paste-2-3 tsp
Sugar – to taste
Mava- ¼ cup grated
Green elaichi powder-1/4 tsp
Nutmeg powder- 1 pinch
Condensed milk-1/4 cup
Sliced almonds- 2-3 tbsp.
Sliced walnuts- 2-3 tbsp.
Charoli- 2-3 tsp
Assorted fresh fruits- pineapple/ pears/ grapes/ cherries/ pomegranate seeds/ custard apple pulp/ peaches etc can be cut and used in the layering of this dessert for a twist of taste.
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the sweet recipe.
- In a thick bottomed pan combine together the milk, bring to a boil, simmer and add in the rice paste, sugar, elaichi powder, nutmeg powder and continue cooking for 12-15 mins stirring constantly to prevent sticking at the base.
- Add in condensed milk, mava, and mix well, simmer for another 10-12 mins and allow the rice paste to cook well.
- As the mixture cooks, it will start thickening up and get a custard like texture, this has to be done carefully to avoid sticking or getting burnt from the base.
- Chill down the sweet completely and add in the almonds and walnuts and mix well.
- Dish out the dessert into serving bowls and layer them with assorted fruits as desired and serve them chilled.
Recipe-2] DRY FRUIT WALA SHEERA
Ingredients:
Sooji- 1 cup
Water chestnut flour/singhare ka atta-1/4 cup
Ghee- 2-3 tbsp.
Sugar- as per taste
Green cardamom powder- ¼ tsp
Jaggery-1/2 cup grated
Coconut- ¼ cup grated
Raisins- 2-3 tbsp.
Cashews- 2-3 tbsp.
Almonds- 2-3 tbsp.
Banana-1 ripe, peeled, mashed.
Milk- 500 ml
Water-1/4 cup
Saffron- 8-10 strands
Dates- 3-4 no chopped
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the sheera concept with nuts.
- In a thick bottomed pan start roasting the sooji in ghee with elaichi for 3-4 mins on low flame, then add in the shingare ka atta and saute for 1-2 mins more.
- Add in the sugar and mix well. Add in a little water and then the mashed banana and milk and give it all a nice mix.
- Cook on a low flame add jaggery as well, combine the mixture well, add in the variety of nuts and dates, cover and simmer, cook the sheera for 8-10 mins add all the assorted dry fruits.
- Check for sweetness and adjust accordingly. Serve the sheera warm garnished with nuts.
Recipe- 3] FRUITY DRY FRUIT MELANGE
Ingredients:
Milk- 500 ml
Sugar to taste
Condensed milk-2-3 tbsp.
Khari biscuits- 8-10 no
Butter-2-3 tsp
Dates- 4-6 no chopped
Almonds-2 tsp chopped
Cashews- 2 tsp chopped
Raisins-2 tsp chopped
Mango pulp/ Aamras/ tinned/ processed- 1 cup or any kind of fruit as per season can be used/ other option use rose syrup.
Saffron- 4-6 strands soaked in little milk
Gulab Jamun- 3-4 no sliced
Jalebi- 8-10 no.
Meetha paan- 1 no finely chopped
Method: - Prepare all the ingredients for the fruity melange mixture.
- In a saucepan warm up the milk, add sugar, condensed milk, saffron, few nuts and mix well.
- Turn off the flame, add in the roughly broken Khari biscuits into the milk and allow to soak up and absorb the flavors.
- Grease a baking dish with a little butter, place half the mixture at the base, add nuts, dates, sliced Gulab Jamun, jalebi pieces, chopped meetha paan and the fruit pulp, top with more pastry mixture and cover it all up.
- Place into the baking deck and allow 20-25 mins at 180 degrees celsius and serve this mesmerising sweet warm/ chilled.
Recipe- 4] HEALTHY NUTTY RICE
Ingredients:
Boiled white rice- 2 cups
Oil-2 tbsp.
Ghee-2 tsp
Cinnamon stick-1 piece
Black cardamom-2 pieces
Cloves- 3-4
Ginger-garlic paste-1 tsp
Green chilies- 2 tsp chopped
Onions- 1 cup sliced
Tomatoes-1 small chopped
Garam masala powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp
Red chili powder-1/4 tsp
Cumin powder-1/4 tsp
Water-1/4 cup
Kasuri methi-1 tsp
Salt to taste
Assorted vegetables- 2 cups including carrots, peas, potatoes, cauliflower, sweet potato, capsicum, mushroom, Babycorn etc.
We can also use soya chunks/ soya granules as well
Rose water-2-3 tsp
Fried assorted nuts- ½ cup almonds/ pista/ walnuts/ cashews.
Mint and coriander leaves to garnish.
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the rice recipe with nuts.
- Heat oil and ghee add in the whole spices and cook them well.
3.Add in the sliced onions and fry until golden browned, add in the ginger-garlic paste, chilies, tomatoes, salt and all spices to taste along with a little kasuri methi. - Add in the assorted veggies and give it a nice mix. Cook for 5-6 mins on a low flame. Now add in the boiled rice, sprinkle rose water, mint and coriander leaves and top it with all the fried nuts.
- Cover and place on dum for 25- 30 mins and then serve the nutty flavoured rice.
Recipe- 5] NUTKHUT DOUBLE ROTI PUDDING
Ingredients:
Bread slices- 5-7 no
Milk- 500- 600 ml
Sugar- as per taste
Condensed milk-1/4 cup
Vanilla essence- ½ tsp
Chocolate chips-2-3 tbsp.
Chocolate sauce-2-3 tbsp.
Almonds-2 tsp sliced
Walnuts-2 tsp sliced
Raisins- 2-3 tsp
Cashews- 2-3 tsp sliced
Apricots- 3-4 no chopped
Dates- 2-3 chopped
Banana- 1 ripe, peeled sliced
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the bread pudding with loads of nuts to relish.
- Pre-heat the oven to 160 degrees celsius, using a saucepan heat up the milk, add sugar, condensed milk, saffron, nuts, dates, apricots and stir well, cook for 3-4 mins.
- Add in the bread cubes and essence and allow the bread to absorb up all the milk.
- Grease a baking dish with butter and pour in the bread and milk mixture, also place some banana slices along the way and some chocolate chips to add to the flavor. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20- 30 mins and serve hot garnished with chocolate sauce.
Recipe- 6] ZARDA PULAO
Ingredients
Basmati rice-2 cups cooked, some recipes use raw rice as well.
Ghee- 2-3 tbsp.
Oil-1 tsp
Cloves- 2-3 no
Peppercorns- 2-3 no
Bay leaf- 1-2 no
Cinnamon stick-1-inch piece
Sugar-1/2 cup
Water-1 cup
Nutmeg powder-1/4 tsp
Prunes- 4-5 sliced
Apricots- 4-5 chopped
Raisins- 3-4 tsp
Almonds-2-3 tsp sliced
Cashews-2-3 tsp sliced
Walnuts- 2-3 tsp sliced
Condensed milk- ¼ cup
Saffron- 4-6 strands soaked in ¼ cup warm milk.
Rose water-2-3 tsp
Pineapple cubes- 1 cup
Charoli- 2-3 tbsp.
Method:
1.Prepare all the ingredients for the zarda pulao. While in most parts of north India the rice used is raw and cooks with the sweetness and saffron flavors but in this recipe I am making it using cooked rice.
- Cook the white rice, and keep aside to cool. Heat oil and ghee in a pan add in all the whole spices and mix well. Add in the sugar, condensed milk, honey, little water and saffron mixture as well. Also add in all the assorted nuts and dried fruits and mix them in.
- Cook all of it in the pan for 2-3 mins, add in the cooked white rice on the top and sprinkle rose water, pineapple and Charoli if desired and cover, seal the edges and cook on dum for 12- 15 mins, open get the steam out and mix the rice and serve hot garnished with assorted fried nuts.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef, is a Mumbai based food- health & lifestyle consultant. With over 22 plus years of quality experience with hotels, airlines, consultancy – training & development he is a recipient of several national awards & global recognitions. Chef Kaviraj is specialised in over 33 international cuisines and loves fusion cooking, creating new recipes and sharing his experience with foodies around the globe. He has also been featured on star plus & colors television on several food shows. He may be contacted via email: chefkaviraj249@gmail.com / WhatsApp- 9820939336.
A nut is a fruit consisting of a hard or tough nutshell protecting a kernel which is usually edible. In general usage and in a culinary sense, a wide variety of dry seeds are called nuts, but in a botanical context “nut” implies that the shell does not open to release the seed. Nuts are awesomely versatile. They’re an easy portable snack, delicious on salads and have endless uses in a variety of cuisines.
They’re also nutritional superstars, packed with protein and healthy fats. Nuts are small parcels of good health. While they do contain fat, they’re also rich in nutrients that benefit all-round health. So which ones are the best? That’s a tough one. Some argue in favour of almonds, cashews and pistachios.
An ounce of each of these contains 160 calories, 5-6 grams of protein, and 13-14 grams of fat. On the other hand, macadamias and pecans are not as healthy. They contain about one third the protein of other nuts, but nearly twice the amount of fat. Each macadamia nut has 20 calories, but they do still have health benefits when eaten in moderation.
Nuts are widely touted for their great taste and convenience, but their taste isn’t the only thing that makes them popular. Scientists have long touted the health benefits of making nuts a regular part of your diet. There are many varieties of nuts. Raw mixed nuts usually contain a range of almonds, pistachios, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, and more. They’re readily available at almost any grocery store/ suprermarket and pack a serious nutritional punch.
Facts about few of the Popular Nuts!
Walnuts are among the best nuts for your heart. Though nuts in general have omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts also have high levels of alpha linoleic acid (ALA), which is said to reduce heart arrhythmia. Some studies have shown that, like olive oil, walnuts can reduce inflammation and oxidation in arteries after a meal. Eight walnuts a day is the recommended serving.
Brazil nuts & Pecans: These are both particularly good for men. The former is a rich source of the mineral selenium, which is said to protect men against prostate cancer and other diseases–just one a day is enough. An excess of Brazil nuts may increase the risk of type-2 diabetes, so don’t overdo it. Pecans have a plant steroid called betasitosteral, which eases the symptoms of an enlarged prostrate.
Peanuts: Did you know peanuts are not really nuts, but in fact legumes? Still, most people consider them nuts. They have high folate content, which helps brain development and inhibits the decline of cognitive functions. This makes them perfect for vegetarians, whose diets are short on the mineral. Peanuts are also good for pregnant women, and like actual nuts, they have an abundance of healthy fats and vitamin E.
Almonds: One of the best nuts to prevent disease, they are high in calcium, low in calories, and rich in fibre and vitamin E. That last nutrient acts as an antioxidant that combats inflammation and serious health conditions, like lung cancer and age-related cognitive decline.
Hazelnuts: One of the most popular flavouring agents whether in coffee or spreads, hazelnuts aren’t just delicious. They have a good amount of monounsaturated fat, which works to regulate heart health and blood sugar. We’re all aware of the benefits of foods that contain vitamin E, and hazelnuts are yet another great source.
Pistachios: Fun to crack and eat, pistachios are great, especially for someone looking to stay fit. They are among the lowest-calorie nuts, so they won’t pack on the pounds. Pistachios are also full of potassium, which helps maintain nerve and muscle health.
Here are a few Health Benefits of NUTS:
Nuts are a nutritionally rich food, containing most of the vitamins and minerals the body needs. They’re one of the main sources of omega-3 fatty acids, offering a range of health benefits from reducing rheumatoid arthritis to protecting against Alzheimer’s and dementia.
HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS: Nuts are largely composed of fats, which might seem counterintuitive for weight loss. However, the fats in nuts are almost entirely unsaturated, which means they leave you feeling more satisfied after eating, helping you eat less over time. Studies have even found that people who eat nuts frequently are at a lower risk of gaining weight than those who seldom eat nuts.
HELPS CONTROL DIABETES: as per studies done by a few scientists found impressive reasons for recommending regular nut consumption as a way to manage diabetes. In a controlled study, people with type 2 diabetes who ate more than five servings of nuts per week lowered their risk of heart disease by as much as 17%.
PREVENTS HEART DISEASE & REGULATES CHOLESTROL LEVELS: There have been many studies showing the beneficial effects of nuts on heart health. Eating nuts at least four times per week is correlated with fewer cases of coronary heart disease. Nuts also play an important role in regulating cholesterol. Scientists have found a direct correlation between eating nuts at least a few times per week and the reduction of LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. Improved cholesterol is associated with less risk of stroke or cardiovascular disease.
Here are a few of my favorite recipes using nuts for all our readers to try out and benefit from the goodness of NUTS!
Recipe-1] BADAM AUR AKHROAT WALI KHEER
Ingredients:
Milk- 500 ml
Rice paste-2-3 tsp
Sugar – to taste
Mava- ¼ cup grated
Green elaichi powder-1/4 tsp
Nutmeg powder- 1 pinch
Condensed milk-1/4 cup
Sliced almonds- 2-3 tbsp.
Sliced walnuts- 2-3 tbsp.
Charoli- 2-3 tsp
Assorted fresh fruits- pineapple/ pears/ grapes/ cherries/ pomegranate seeds/ custard apple pulp/ peaches etc can be cut and used in the layering of this dessert for a twist of taste.
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the sweet recipe.
- In a thick bottomed pan combine together the milk, bring to a boil, simmer and add in the rice paste, sugar, elaichi powder, nutmeg powder and continue cooking for 12-15 mins stirring constantly to prevent sticking at the base.
- Add in condensed milk, mava, and mix well, simmer for another 10-12 mins and allow the rice paste to cook well.
- As the mixture cooks, it will start thickening up and get a custard like texture, this has to be done carefully to avoid sticking or getting burnt from the base.
- Chill down the sweet completely and add in the almonds and walnuts and mix well.
- Dish out the dessert into serving bowls and layer them with assorted fruits as desired and serve them chilled.
Recipe-2] DRY FRUIT WALA SHEERA
Ingredients:
Sooji- 1 cup
Water chestnut flour/singhare ka atta-1/4 cup
Ghee- 2-3 tbsp.
Sugar- as per taste
Green cardamom powder- ¼ tsp
Jaggery-1/2 cup grated
Coconut- ¼ cup grated
Raisins- 2-3 tbsp.
Cashews- 2-3 tbsp.
Almonds- 2-3 tbsp.
Banana-1 ripe, peeled, mashed.
Milk- 500 ml
Water-1/4 cup
Saffron- 8-10 strands
Dates- 3-4 no chopped
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the sheera concept with nuts.
- In a thick bottomed pan start roasting the sooji in ghee with elaichi for 3-4 mins on low flame, then add in the shingare ka atta and saute for 1-2 mins more.
- Add in the sugar and mix well. Add in a little water and then the mashed banana and milk and give it all a nice mix.
- Cook on a low flame add jaggery as well, combine the mixture well, add in the variety of nuts and dates, cover and simmer, cook the sheera for 8-10 mins add all the assorted dry fruits.
- Check for sweetness and adjust accordingly. Serve the sheera warm garnished with nuts.
Recipe- 3] FRUITY DRY FRUIT MELANGE
Ingredients:
Milk- 500 ml
Sugar to taste
Condensed milk-2-3 tbsp.
Khari biscuits- 8-10 no
Butter-2-3 tsp
Dates- 4-6 no chopped
Almonds-2 tsp chopped
Cashews- 2 tsp chopped
Raisins-2 tsp chopped
Mango pulp/ Aamras/ tinned/ processed- 1 cup or any kind of fruit as per season can be used/ other option use rose syrup.
Saffron- 4-6 strands soaked in little milk
Gulab Jamun- 3-4 no sliced
Jalebi- 8-10 no.
Meetha paan- 1 no finely chopped
Method: - Prepare all the ingredients for the fruity melange mixture.
- In a saucepan warm up the milk, add sugar, condensed milk, saffron, few nuts and mix well.
- Turn off the flame, add in the roughly broken Khari biscuits into the milk and allow to soak up and absorb the flavors.
- Grease a baking dish with a little butter, place half the mixture at the base, add nuts, dates, sliced Gulab Jamun, jalebi pieces, chopped meetha paan and the fruit pulp, top with more pastry mixture and cover it all up.
- Place into the baking deck and allow 20-25 mins at 180 degrees celsius and serve this mesmerising sweet warm/ chilled.
Recipe- 4] HEALTHY NUTTY RICE
Ingredients:
Boiled white rice- 2 cups
Oil-2 tbsp.
Ghee-2 tsp
Cinnamon stick-1 piece
Black cardamom-2 pieces
Cloves- 3-4
Ginger-garlic paste-1 tsp
Green chilies- 2 tsp chopped
Onions- 1 cup sliced
Tomatoes-1 small chopped
Garam masala powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp
Red chili powder-1/4 tsp
Cumin powder-1/4 tsp
Water-1/4 cup
Kasuri methi-1 tsp
Salt to taste
Assorted vegetables- 2 cups including carrots, peas, potatoes, cauliflower, sweet potato, capsicum, mushroom, Babycorn etc.
We can also use soya chunks/ soya granules as well
Rose water-2-3 tsp
Fried assorted nuts- ½ cup almonds/ pista/ walnuts/ cashews.
Mint and coriander leaves to garnish.
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the rice recipe with nuts.
- Heat oil and ghee add in the whole spices and cook them well.
3.Add in the sliced onions and fry until golden browned, add in the ginger-garlic paste, chilies, tomatoes, salt and all spices to taste along with a little kasuri methi. - Add in the assorted veggies and give it a nice mix. Cook for 5-6 mins on a low flame. Now add in the boiled rice, sprinkle rose water, mint and coriander leaves and top it with all the fried nuts.
- Cover and place on dum for 25- 30 mins and then serve the nutty flavoured rice.
Recipe- 5] NUTKHUT DOUBLE ROTI PUDDING
Ingredients:
Bread slices- 5-7 no
Milk- 500- 600 ml
Sugar- as per taste
Condensed milk-1/4 cup
Vanilla essence- ½ tsp
Chocolate chips-2-3 tbsp.
Chocolate sauce-2-3 tbsp.
Almonds-2 tsp sliced
Walnuts-2 tsp sliced
Raisins- 2-3 tsp
Cashews- 2-3 tsp sliced
Apricots- 3-4 no chopped
Dates- 2-3 chopped
Banana- 1 ripe, peeled sliced
Method:
- Prepare all the ingredients for the bread pudding with loads of nuts to relish.
- Pre-heat the oven to 160 degrees celsius, using a saucepan heat up the milk, add sugar, condensed milk, saffron, nuts, dates, apricots and stir well, cook for 3-4 mins.
- Add in the bread cubes and essence and allow the bread to absorb up all the milk.
- Grease a baking dish with butter and pour in the bread and milk mixture, also place some banana slices along the way and some chocolate chips to add to the flavor. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20- 30 mins and serve hot garnished with chocolate sauce.
Recipe- 6] ZARDA PULAO
Ingredients
Basmati rice-2 cups cooked, some recipes use raw rice as well.
Ghee- 2-3 tbsp.
Oil-1 tsp
Cloves- 2-3 no
Peppercorns- 2-3 no
Bay leaf- 1-2 no
Cinnamon stick-1-inch piece
Sugar-1/2 cup
Water-1 cup
Nutmeg powder-1/4 tsp
Prunes- 4-5 sliced
Apricots- 4-5 chopped
Raisins- 3-4 tsp
Almonds-2-3 tsp sliced
Cashews-2-3 tsp sliced
Walnuts- 2-3 tsp sliced
Condensed milk- ¼ cup
Saffron- 4-6 strands soaked in ¼ cup warm milk.
Rose water-2-3 tsp
Pineapple cubes- 1 cup
Charoli- 2-3 tbsp.
Method:
1.Prepare all the ingredients for the zarda pulao. While in most parts of north India the rice used is raw and cooks with the sweetness and saffron flavors but in this recipe I am making it using cooked rice.
- Cook the white rice, and keep aside to cool. Heat oil and ghee in a pan add in all the whole spices and mix well. Add in the sugar, condensed milk, honey, little water and saffron mixture as well. Also add in all the assorted nuts and dried fruits and mix them in.
- Cook all of it in the pan for 2-3 mins, add in the cooked white rice on the top and sprinkle rose water, pineapple and Charoli if desired and cover, seal the edges and cook on dum for 12- 15 mins, open get the steam out and mix the rice and serve hot garnished with assorted fried nuts.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef, is a Mumbai based food- health & lifestyle consultant. With over 22 plus years of quality experience with hotels, airlines, consultancy – training & development he is a recipient of several national awards & global recognitions. Chef Kaviraj is specialised in over 33 international cuisines and loves fusion cooking, creating new recipes and sharing his experience with foodies around the globe. He has also been featured on star plus & colors television on several food shows. He may be contacted via email: chefkaviraj249@gmail.com / WhatsApp- 9820939336.
