Indian Jaggery Rice Pudding (Vellam Payasam)

May 23, 2023May 23, 20230 2

Traditional Indian Rice Pudding with Jaggery (Vellam Payasam)

Indian Jaggery Rice Pudding (Vellam Payasam)

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1/2 cup uncooked medium grain rice
	2 cups water
	300 300 g palm sugar or 300 g brown sugar ( Preferably do n't substitute )
	2 1/2 tablespoons ghee or 2 1/2 tablespoons clarified butter
	1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
	1 teaspoon broken cashews
	1/2 tablespoon ghee or 1/2 tablespoon clarified butter

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

4-6

Calories

320

Sugar

25g

Fat

14g

Vellam Payasam or Indian Jaggery Rice Pudding is a traditional South Indian dessert that is typically served at special occasions like weddings and festivals. The dish is made using simple ingredients like rice, jaggery, and ghee, which are commonly found in Indian households. The use of jaggery gives it a unique taste and aroma that is different from regular rice pudding recipes. This dessert is easy to make and can be served either hot or cold, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed all year round with family and friends.

Instructions

1.	Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it in enough water for 20-30 minutes.
2.	Drain the water and transfer the rice to a pressure cooker. Add 2 cups of water and pressure cook for 2 whistles.
3.	After the pressure is released, open the cooker and mash the rice using a ladle or spoon, making sure to break any lumps.
4.	Add jaggery or palm sugar to the mashed rice and cook on low flame for 5 minutes until it dissolves and blends well.
5.	Add ghee to a pan and fry cashews until golden brown. Add the fried cashews along with cardamom powder to the rice.
6.	Give it a good mix and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
7.	Serve hot or cold as desired.

PROS

This traditional Indian rice pudding is rich and creamy, with a unique taste due to the use of jaggery.

It is an easy-to-make dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

CONS

Jaggery or palm sugar should not be substituted as it is the key ingredient in this recipe.

This dish is high in calories and sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The use of jaggery in this recipe makes it a healthier alternative to sugar as it contains essential minerals like iron and potassium.
Rice is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy to the body.
Cardamom has anti-inflammatory properties and aids in digestion.
However, people with diabetes or other health conditions should consume this dessert in moderation or seek medical advice.