New Delhi: Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna’s birth, is steeped in tradition, with devotees preparing an array of special food items as bhog. These offerings are a way to express devotion and love for the deity. Among the most cherished dishes is Makhana Kheer, a creamy and rich pudding made from fox nuts, which holds a special place in the festivities. Alongside Makhana Kheer, other traditional sweets like Makhan Mishri and savoury items such as poha are commonly offered, each carrying its own significance. These dishes not only reflect the divine essence of the festival but also connect families and communities in the shared joy of celebrating Krishna’s birth.
Makhana kheer recipe
Here’s a simple and authentic recipe for Makhana Kheer, perfect for offering as bhog on Janmashtami.
Ingredients for making makhana kheer
1 cup makhana (fox nuts/lotus seeds)
1 litre full cream milk
1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
2-3 tablespoons ghee
A handful of chopped dry fruits (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
4-5 cardamom pods, crushed
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
2 tablespoons raisins
Method for making makhana kheer
Begin by heating the ghee in a pan. Add the makhanas and roast them on a low flame until they become crisp and slightly golden. Once roasted, allow them to cool and then crush them lightly with your hands or a rolling pin. This step ensures that the makhanas mix well with the milk.
In a separate, heavy-bottomed pot, bring the milk to a boil. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Once it boils, lower the flame and let it simmer.
Add the roasted and crushed makhanas to the simmering milk. Continue to cook on low flame, stirring frequently. The makhanas will soften and absorb the milk, making the kheer thicker.
Once the kheer has thickened to your desired consistency, add the sugar and stir well until it dissolves completely. Add the crushed cardamom and saffron strands if you’re using them, and mix well.
In the same pan used for roasting the makhanas, lightly roast the chopped dry fruits and raisins. Add these to the kheer, reserving a few for garnish.
Cook the kheer for a few more minutes until it reaches a creamy texture. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Pour the Makhana Kheer into a bowl, garnish with the reserved dry fruits, and offer it as bhog to Lord Krishna.
This Makhana Kheer is a simple yet divine dish, perfect for Janmashtami. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with the goodness of makhanas and dry fruits, making it a delightful offering for the festival. Enjoy the process of making this traditional sweet, and let it add to the joy of your celebrations!
Janmashtami special: Celebrate Janmashtami with a special offering of Makhana Kheer, a creamy and delicious pudding perfect for bhog. This easy recipe will guide you in creating a rich and traditional dish that honours the spirit of the festival. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
