Sattu Kheer is a delightful and healthy dessert, popular in many regions of India, especially in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of North India. Made from sattu (roasted gram flour), this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s the perfect blend of traditional ingredients and modern taste, ideal for those who prefer light yet satisfying desserts. If you’ve never made Sattu Kheer before, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some simple tips and a step-by-step guide to help you create this sweet dish with ease.
What is Sattu?
Sattu is a flour made by roasting gram pulses (chickpeas or lentils). This flour is rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy, plant-based source of energy. When prepared as a kheer, sattu absorbs the milk and spices, giving the dish a smooth, rich texture and a unique, nutty flavor that makes it stand out from traditional rice or wheat-based kheer.
Ingredients for Sattu Kheer
Before we dive into the preparation, let’s first gather the ingredients needed to make this delightful dish:
- 1/2 cup sattu (roasted gram flour)
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- 2-3 tbsp sugar (adjust according to your taste)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1-2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios, etc.)
- Saffron strands (optional, for aroma and color)
- A pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Roast the Sattu
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee. Add the sattu flour and roast it on low heat until it turns slightly golden and releases a pleasant aroma. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Roasting sattu enhances its flavor and helps to make the kheer smooth. - Prepare the Milk
In another pan, bring the full-fat milk to a gentle boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes. This helps to reduce the milk and thicken it. - Combine Sattu with Milk
Slowly add the roasted sattu flour to the boiling milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. You may want to mix the sattu with a little bit of cold milk first to create a smooth paste before adding it to the pan. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5–7 minutes. - Sweeten the Kheer
Once the milk and sattu mixture reaches a creamy consistency, add sugar to the pan. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely. You can also adjust the sweetness depending on your preference. - Add Flavorings
Add a pinch of cardamom powder for that aromatic kick. If you’re using saffron, soak a few strands in warm milk and add them to the kheer for a richer flavor and golden color. - Add Nuts and Ghee
In a small pan, heat the remaining ghee and fry the chopped nuts until they are golden brown. Add these to the kheer to enhance the texture and provide a crunch. Stir well to combine everything. - Simmer and Serve
Allow the kheer to simmer on low heat for a few more minutes. Once it reaches a thick, creamy consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. You can serve Sattu Kheer warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Tips for the Perfect Sattu Kheer
- Roast Sattu Properly: The key to a great Sattu Kheer lies in properly roasting the sattu. Roasting the flour enhances its flavor and texture, making the kheer smoother and richer.
- Consistency: If the kheer becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to adjust the consistency. It should be creamy but not too thick.
- Vary the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can also try jaggery for a more natural sweetener.
- Chill Before Serving: If you want a refreshing dessert, allow the kheer to cool and chill in the refrigerator before serving.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a splash of rose water or kewra essence for a fragrant twist. Alternatively, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor.
Why You Should Try Sattu Kheer
Sattu Kheer is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a healthy dessert option. Packed with proteins, vitamins, and minerals, it’s ideal for those looking for an energy boost or a light post-meal dessert. The richness of the milk combined with the goodness of sattu creates a filling dish that doesn’t weigh you down.
So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and healthy, give Sattu Kheer a try. With these simple steps and tips, you can whip up this traditional dessert in no time!
