Traditional kheer is a popular Indian rice pudding made with milk, rice, sugar, and flavoured with cardamom and nuts. It is a classic dessert that is often served on special occasions and festivals. Here's a recipe for traditional kheer:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup basmati rice

• 4 cups milk

• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds and pistachios

• A pinch of saffron strands (optional)

• Raisins for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Wash the basmati rice under running water and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.

3. Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling milk. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

4. Cook the rice in the milk until it becomes soft and tender. It will take approximately 30-40 minutes.

5. Add sugar to the rice and milk mixture. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

6. Continue cooking the kheer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. The rice will further break down and thicken the kheer as it cooks.

7. Add cardamom powder and mix well. You can also add a pinch of saffron strands soaked in warm milk for added flavour and colour (optional).

8. Remove the kheer from heat and let it cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.

9. Once the kheer has cooled, transfer it to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped almonds, pistachios, and a few raisins.

10. Refrigerate the kheer for at least 2-3 hours or until it is well chilled.

11. Serve the traditional kheer cold as a delightful dessert.

Enjoy the creamy and aromatic traditional kheer!