Saffron Delight, also known as Sheer Khurma, is a traditional Afghan dessert made with vermicelli noodles, milk, cardamom, saffron, and nuts. It is especially popular during celebrations like Eid al-Fitr and weddings, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. This dessert stands out for its creamy texture, rich flavors, and versatility, often served warm or cold. The addition of ingredients like saffron and cardamom not only enhances its aroma but also provides numerous health benefits. Saffron is known for its antioxidant properties, while cardamom aids digestion and adds a refreshing taste. The nuts, such as almonds and pistachios, offer a source of healthy fats, proteins, and essential vitamins, contributing to the overall nutritional value of this dish. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a favored choice for festive gatherings and family celebrations.

ingredients:

1- 1 liter full-fat milk

2- 1/2 cup vermicelli noodles

3- 1/2 cup sugar

4- 1/4 cup ghee or clarified butter

5- 1/4 cup chopped dates

6- 1/4 cup chopped almonds

7- 1/4 cup chopped cashews

8- 1/4 cup raisins

9- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

10- A pinch of saffron (optional)

11- Water

Here are the steps to make Sheer Khurma:

1- Begin by soaking the chopped dates and raisins in water for about 30 minutes. This will help them become plump and juicy.

2- In a heavy-bottomed pot or pan, heat the ghee or clarified butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the vermicelli noodles and fry them for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. Make sure not to burn them.

3- Add the milk to the pot and stir well. Bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.

4- Add the sugar and stir well. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the milk thickens slightly.

5- Drain the soaked dates and raisins and add them to the pot along with the chopped almonds and cashews. Mix well.

6- Add the cardamom powder and saffron (if using) to the pot and stir well. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the nuts are soft and the flavors have melded together.

7- Turn off the heat and let the Sheer Khurma cool down to room temperature.

8- Serve the Sheer Khurma in individual bowls, garnished with a few chopped nuts and some saffron strands.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Sheer Khurma:

To ensure the perfect texture and taste for Sheer Khurma, it is essential to follow a few tips during the cooking process:

- Control the Heat: When frying the vermicelli noodles in ghee, make sure the heat is moderate. High heat can cause the noodles to burn quickly, resulting in a bitter taste. Stir constantly and cook them until they are golden brown, but not overcooked. This ensures that the noodles absorb the milk properly and the dish develops its rich texture.

- Simmering: After adding the milk to the pot, bring it to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the milk to thicken without curdling, giving Sheer Khurma its creamy consistency.

- Healthier Alternatives: To make the dessert healthier, you can swap some ingredients with better alternatives. For example:

- Replace white sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar to reduce the glycemic index.

- Use skim or plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut milk) instead of whole milk to lower fat content while still maintaining the creamy texture.

- Adding Extra Nutrition: You can enhance the nutritional value of Sheer Khurma by adding more dried fruits or seeds like chia or flaxseeds. These additions will provide more fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Note:

- You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. You can also add more nuts or dried fruits if you like.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can sugar be replaced with healthier alternatives?

- Yes, you can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. These alternatives provide sweetness without the sharp blood sugar spikes caused by regular sugar and offer additional nutrients.

What are the best alternatives for full-fat milk?

- Full-fat milk can be replaced with skim milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. Plant-based milks like almond or coconut milk are lower in fat and offer a dairy-free option for those with lactose intolerance or dietary preferences.

Can Sheer Khurma be stored for a long time?

- Sheer Khurma can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave before serving, or you can enjoy it cold, depending on your preference.

Can additional ingredients like dried fruits or honey be added?

- Yes, you can add other ingredients such as dried berries, apricots, or figs to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Honey can also be used as a substitute for sugar to add a different kind of sweetness while boosting health benefits.

What are the health benefits of saffron in Sheer Khurma?

- Saffron is packed with antioxidants, which help to combat oxidative stress in the body. It is also known for improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. Furthermore, saffron can aid in digestion, improve memory, and enhance overall cognitive function. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to better overall health.

Nutrition Facts:

One serving (100g) of Sheer Khurma contains approximately

- 200 calories

- 7g of fat

- 30g of carbohydrates

- 6g of protein

- It is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D. However, due to its high sugar and fat content, it should be consumed in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.

Here are the approximate nutrition facts for the ingredients listed in Sheer Khurma, a traditional Indian dessert:

1 liter full-fat milk:

- Calories: 640

- Fat: 34g

- Carbohydrates: 48g

- Protein: 32g

benfits: Milk is a rich source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It helps in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting overall growth and development.

1/2 cup vermicelli noodles:

- Calories: 200

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 40g

- Protein: 6g

benfits: Vermicelli noodles are a type of pasta made from wheat flour. They provide carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy for the body, as well as some protein and fiber.

1/2 cup sugar:

- Calories: 387

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 100g

- Protein: 0g

benfits: Sugar provides sweetness to the dish. It is a source of quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation as excessive sugar intake can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes.

1/4 cup ghee or clarified butter:

- Calories: 456

- Fat: 51g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

benfits: Ghee is a type of clarified butter that is commonly used in South Asian cooking. It adds richness and flavor to dishes and is a source of healthy fats.

1/4 cup chopped dates:

- Calories: 109

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 29g

- Protein: 1g

benfits: Dates are a natural sweetener and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They provide natural sweetness and add texture to the dish.

1/4 cup chopped almonds:

- Calories: 161

- Fat: 14g

- Carbohydrates: 6g

- Protein: 6g

benfits: Almonds are a nutrient-dense nut rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They add crunch and a nutty flavor to the dish.

1/4 cup chopped cashews:

- Calories: 189

- Fat: 15g

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Protein: 5g

benfits: Cashews are another nut that is rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They add creaminess and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.

1/4 cup raisins:

- Calories: 108

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 28g

- Protein: 1g

benfits: Raisins are dried grapes that are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They add natural sweetness and chewiness to the dish.

1/4 tsp cardamom powder:

- Calories: 1

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

benfits: Cardamom is a spice with a strong, sweet flavor. It is rich in antioxidants and has been used in traditional medicine for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

A pinch of saffron (optional): -

- Calories: 0

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

benfits: Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus. It adds a rich golden color and a subtle flavor to dishes. Saffron is also believed to have antioxidant properties and may have several health benefits.

Water: Contains no calories, fat, carbohydrates, or protein.

benfits: Water is used in cooking to boil the vermicelli noodles and to adjust the consistency of the dish. It is essential for hydration and overall health.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the brand and specific quantities used. Additionally, the total nutritional value of the dish will depend on the serving size and preparation method.