Akkaravadisal (South Indian Rice Kheer) recipe with tips and health benefits

Balasahana Suresh
Akkaravadisal Recipe

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup raw rice (sona masuri or basmati)
  • 1 liter full-fat milk
  • ¾ cup jaggery (or sugar)
  • ¼ cup ghee (clarified butter)
  • 10–12 cashews
  • 10–12 raisins
  • ¼ tsp cardamom powder
  • 2–3 saffron strands (optional)
  • A pinch of edible camphor (optional, for traditional aroma)
Instructions:

Cook Rice:

Wash and soak rice for 30 minutes.

Drain and cook the rice in milk on medium-low heat until it becomes soft and mushy. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Sweeten the Rice:

Melt jaggery in a little water and strain to remove impurities.

Add the jaggery syrup (or sugar) to the cooked rice and stir well.

Add ghee and Nuts:

Heat ghee in a small pan, fry cashews until golden, and add raisins to fry lightly.

Pour this ghee-nut mixture into the rice along with cardamom powder, saffron strands, and camphor if using.

Simmer:

Cook on low heat for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Akkaravadisal thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.

Serve:

Serve warm or at room temperature. It can also be refrigerated and served chilled.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Use full-fat milk for a richer, creamier texture.
  • Stir frequently to prevent milk from sticking and burning.
  • Adjust jaggery/sugar according to taste; jaggery adds a traditional, earthy flavor.
  • Fry nuts just before adding to retain crunchiness.
  • A pinch of edible camphor gives authentic flavor, but it’s optional.
  • Simmer on low heat for proper thickening without curdling the milk.
Health Benefits of Akkaravadisal

Akkaravadisal is more than just a dessert; its ingredients offer several nutritional advantages:

Energy-Rich: Rice and jaggery provide instant and sustained energy.

Bone Health: Milk and cashews supply calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth.

Digestive Aid: jaggery helps improve digestion and detoxifies the body.

Heart Health: ghee in moderation provides good fats that support heart and brain health.

Immune Support: cardamom, saffron, and ghee contain antioxidants that help strengthen immunity.

Iron Content: jaggery and cashews provide essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Satiety: Rich in carbohydrates and moderate fat, Akkaravadisal keeps you full longer, making it suitable for festive or post-fasting meals.

Conclusion:
Akkaravadisal is a traditional South indian dessert, often prepared during festivals and auspicious occasions. Its creamy texture, aromatic flavors, and nutritional benefits make it a wholesome sweet treat that delights both the palate and the body when enjoyed in moderation.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

For more interesting updates click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel

Find Out More:

Rice

Related Articles: