A South Indian Payasam for Dessert - Who's Hungry

Payasam is a fabulous South Asian dessert that goes by many names. It's enjoyed all over the sub-continent by every ethnic and religious group.

Vermicelli payasam also called Semiya Payasam/Kheer is one of the easiest recipes that can be prepared for occasions in just 20 minutes. Whether it is a festive occasion or a regular day, you can just prepare this easy Indian sweet dish to make your day special.

3/4 cup of vermicelli

2 Tsp ghee

1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to suit your taste)

1/8 Tsp green cardamom powder (elaichi)

Few strands of saffron (optional)

500ml milk

200ml water (you could substitute this with milk if you desire a thick payasam)

Cashew nuts and Raisins (as needed)

1. Melt 1 tsp ghee or butter in a heavy bottom pan.
2. Add cashew pieces and toast them gently, add raisins and when they're nice and golden set them aside.

1. In the same pan, roast the vermicelli till it turns slightly golden on a medium flame.
2. If you are using very thin semeya, after frying keep it aside on a plate.

1. Pour the milk and water into a pan or pot.
2. Bring the milk to a boil on a medium flame.
3. If you have set aside the vermicelli add it now.
4. Cook till the vermicelli is fully cooked.
5. Keep stirring to prevent burning.

1. Add 1 tsp of cardamon powder.
2. Add sugar as per required.
3. Cook about 3 to 5 mins on a low flame.

1. Garnish with Cashew nuts and raisins.
2. Ladle it into serving dishes or bowls.
3. Serve payasam warm or chilled it tastes YUMMY.
4. Also, you can sprinkle the top with a bit of crumbled saffron and finely chopped pistachio and serve it up!

I love this dessert, it's sweet and the milk with spices give it a lovely, fragrant flavor.

If you've never had a vermicelli pudding before, TRY IT, you'll LOVE IT.

That's all Foodie's
Enjoy your ocassion with Special Vermicelli Payasam.