How to Make Thandai Flavored Rice Kheer for a Holi Special Treat

Holi, the festival of colours, is not just about vibrant hues and joyous celebrations—it's also about indulging in delightful sweets and refreshing drinks. Among the many festive favourites, Thandai and Rice Kheer hold a special place in every Indian household. This Holi, take your celebrations up with a unique fusion dessert: Thandai—flavoured rice Kheer. By blending the cooling essence of Thandai with the creamy richness of traditional Rice Kheer, this recipe offers a delectable twist on two beloved classics. The aromatic spices of Thandai beautifully complement Kheer's slow-cooked, velvety texture, creating a festive and refreshing dessert. Whether served chilled or warm, this fusion delight will be a crowd-pleaser at your Holi celebrations. Enjoy the best of both worlds in one spoonful of indulgence!

Why Thandai Flavoured Rice Kheer?

Thandai is an integral part of Holi celebrations. It is known for its cooling properties and aromatic blend of spices like fennel, cardamom, and saffron. It refreshes and adds a distinct festive touch to any delicacy. On the other hand, Rice Kheer is a staple dessert enjoyed during Indian festivals, celebrated for its creamy texture and comforting sweetness. By infusing the richness of Kheer with the bold flavours of Thandai, this fusion dish offers a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. This Holi, treat your taste buds to a dessert that's not only delicious but also embodies the true spirit of the festival.

Ingredients You'll Need (serves 4)

For the Rice Kheer Base:

• 1/4 cup Kohinoor Super Value Authentic Basmati Rice
• 4 cups full-fat milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• 1 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)

For the Thandai Flavour:

• 2 tbsp Thandai powder (made with 1 tbsp fennel seeds, 1 tbsp almonds, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp cardamom, 5-6 saffron strands, and 1 tbsp melon seeds, finely ground)
• 1/2 tsp rose water
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Prepare Thandai Rice Kheer

Step 1: Preparing the Kheer Base

• Wash and soak Kohinoor Super Value Authentic Basmati Rice for 30 minutes and make a fine paste.
• In a deep pan, boil 4 cups of milk, then add the rice paste.
• Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens (about 25-30 minutes).

Step 2: Infusing the Thandai Flavor

• Add 1/2 cup sugar and mix well until dissolved.
• Stir in the prepared 2 tbsp Thandai powder, 1/2 tsp rose water, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder.
• Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to blend.

Step 3: Garnishing and Serving

• Remove from heat, let it cool, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours for a chilled version. Garnish with chopped nuts and saffron strands before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Thandai Kheer

• Adjust the sweetness and spice levels as per your taste preference.
• Substitute sugar with condensed milk and reduce the milk quantity slightly for extra richness.
• Soak almonds, cashews, and melon seeds before blending into Thandai powder for a creamier texture.
• Use full-fat milk for a thicker consistency and enhanced flavour.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Kheer Shots: Serve in small glasses for an elegant festive presentation.
• Festive Kheer Tart: Fill tart shells with Thandai Kheer and top with nuts for a modern twist.
• Layered Dessert: For a visually appealing treat, layer chilled Kheer with crushed nuts and rose petals in serving glasses.

Celebrate Holi with a Sweet Twist

This Holi, embrace tradition creatively by preparing Thandai Thandai-flavoured rice Kheer using Kohinoor . Kohinoor Super Value Authentic Basmati Rice. The delicate aroma of basmati rice and rich Thandai spices make this dessert an irresistible festive delight. Share this unique recipe with your loved ones, making your Holi celebrations even more memorable. Whether served warm or chilled, this fusion treat will add flavour and festivity to your table. Wishing you a Holi filled with colours, joy, and delicious indulgences!

FAQs

How to make Holi special thandai flavoured rice kheer at home?

To make a festive Holi special thandai‑flavoured rice kheer, start with a creamy rice kheer: cook basmati rice in full‑fat milk until thick. Then blend in aromatic thandai spices (such as fennel, cardamom, saffron, and nuts) and rose water for a signature Holi flavour. Cool and garnish with nuts and saffron before serving.

What ingredients are needed for the traditional Holi thandai kheer recipe?

You'll need high‑quality basmati rice, full‑fat milk, sugar, and cardamom for the kheer base. For Thandai flavour, use Thandai powder made from fennel seeds, almonds, melon seeds, cardamom, black pepper, and saffron, plus rose water and nutmeg for a festive twist. Garnish with chopped nuts for texture and aroma.

How do you prepare thandai powder for Holi desserts?

To prepare thandai powder, dry‑grind a mix of fennel seeds, almonds, melon seeds, cardamom, black pepper, and saffron into a fine, aromatic powder. This spice blend infuses rich festive flavours into milk desserts like rice kheer. Soaking nuts lightly before grinding can help achieve a smoother, richer powder.

What is the best way to cook rice kheer for Holi without burning or sticking?

Cook rice kheer on low heat in a heavy‑bottomed pan, stirring frequently to prevent burning or sticking. Use full‑fat milk and start with soaked, washed basmati rice. Stir often as the milk thickens so the grains cook evenly and don't stick to the bottom. Patience and gentle heat ensure creamy, smooth kheer.

Can thandai rice kheer be made in advance for Holi celebrations?

Yes! You can prepare thandai rice kheer ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This lets the thandai flavours deepen. Store in an airtight container for up to a couple of days, then reheat gently or serve chilled with nut and saffron garnishes.