Delicious Jaggery Kheer Recipe for Chhath Puja Celebrations

Understanding Kharna: The Second Day of Chhath Puja

The second day of Chhath Puja is referred to as 'Kharna'. During the evening of this day, devotees prepare *kheer* (a type of pudding) using jaggery, along with *roti* (flatbread) generously coated with *ghee*, which is then offered to Chhathi Maiya as *prasad*. After partaking in this *prasad*, those observing the fast commence a rigorous 36-hour *nirjala* (waterless) fast.

How to Make Jaggery Kheer

Making jaggery *kheer* is relatively straightforward. However, many individuals make a common error that leads to curdling of the milk. Here’s how to prepare it correctly.

Jaggery Kheer Recipe

Total time: 40 mins
Preparation time: 10 mins
Cooking time: 30 mins
Course: Desserts
Servings: 2 people
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients:
Freshly harvested rice – 1/2 cup
Milk – 1 litre
Jaggery – 3/4 cup to 1 cup
Water – 1/2 cup
Dry fruits – Almonds, cashews, and raisins
Cardamom powder – 1/2 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Method for Jaggery Kheer

Preparation Steps:
Begin by thoroughly washing the rice and soaking it in water for 15 to 20 minutes. After soaking, drain the water.
Next, pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pot and heat it on medium until it boils. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
Add the soaked rice to the simmering milk, stirring continuously to prevent sticking to the pot's bottom.
Cook on low heat until the rice is tender and the milk has thickened to a creamy consistency.
Meanwhile, melt the jaggery with half a cup of water in a separate pan over low heat. Once dissolved, remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
It’s crucial to remember not to add jaggery to hot milk, as this can cause curdling.

Final Touches to Your Jaggery Kheer

After the *kheer* is cooked, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the jaggery water and gradually mix it into the *kheer*, stirring continuously with a ladle. Finally, add ground cardamom powder and your choice of chopped dry fruits.

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