Samak Ki Kheer
Samak Makhana Kheer Recipe for Navratri, a perfect fasting dessert that is made with barnyard millet and fox nuts. Also known as Sama Ki Kheer This fasting-friendly dessert is easy to prepare. All you need is samak rice, makhana, milk, and sweetener of your choice.

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Why To Make It?
- It is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional kheer.
- This version of Kheer is perfect for fasting, ensuring you stay energized and satisfied.
- Samak is naturally gluten-free which makes it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
- This kheer is so easy to prepare and a great dessert choice for your festive table.
Ingredients
- Samak rice (Barnyard Millet): This will be the base of the Kheer.
- Makhana: This will provide a unique flavor and a grainy texture.
- Milk: For adding creaminess and richness to the kheer.
- Raisins: Will sweeten the kheer and adds a chewy texture.
- Condensed milk: For adding a luscious rich texture and sweetness to the kheer.
- Cardamom powder: For infusing aromatic flavor into the kheer.
- Saffron: This will add a beautiful color and luxurious taste.
- Jaggery or sugar (optional): For added sweetness, according to your preference.
- Pistachio powder: For garnish and added flavor.
- Sliced almonds: For a delightful crunch in the Kheer
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions

- Dry roast the makhana on low-medium heat until crispy, then grind them into a coarse powder.
- In a saucepan, cook samak rice and milk together for 7-8 minutes on medium heat.
- Then add the crushed makhana to the saucepan and cook for a few more minutes.

- Stir in the raisins, condensed milk, cardamom powder, and saffron.
- For additional sweetness, add jaggery or sugar if desired, and mix well.
- Serve the kheer chilled or hot, garnish it with pistachio powder, sliced almonds, and saffron.
full-fat milk for a creamier texture and let the kheer sit for a bit after cooking to thicken up
Substitutions
- You can substitute condensed milk with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Instead of regular milk, you can use almond milk which will provide a unique nutty flavor, and is also a dairy-free substitute too.
- You can replace samak rice with quinoa for a different texture.
- You can use dates instead of Jaggery or sugar for natural sweetness.
Variations
- Add a handful of chopped cashews or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Mix in some dried fruits like apricots or figs for added flavor and sweetness in the kheer.
- Top the kheer with fresh fruit like mango or berries for a refreshing twist.
- Stir in some cocoa powder for a chocolaty version of kheer.
- Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or vanilla, for unique flavors.
Storage
- Store any leftover Kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the kheer gently on the stovetop or microwave. It is always a good idea to add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
How to serve
Serve the kheer in individual bowls or a large serving dish and garnish it generously with pistachio powder, sliced almonds, and a few strands of saffron for your festive table.
FAQ
Can I make this kheer in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before serving and make sure its not too cold. If the kheer is too thick, mix in some milk to get the right consistency.
Is this kheer suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk like almond and coconut or cashew cream, to make it vegan.
Can I freeze the kheer?
It's best enjoyed when its slightly cool. If you want, you can freeze it the fridge for a week. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.
How long can I store the kheer?
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use fresh saffron instead of powdered saffron?
Yes, fresh saffron can be used. Before adding it, soak it in warm milk for a few minutes to release its flavor and aroma.
More Such Recipes
- Makhana Kheer | Fox nut Kheer
- Apple Kheer Recipe
- Rice Kheer | Indian Rice Pudding | Chawal ki Kheer
- Coconut Burfi (Video Recipe)
- Quinoa Kheer Recipe
- Kesar Phirni Recipe
- Strawberry Lassi
Watch Video

Samak Ki Kheer
Ingredients
- 1 cup Makhana
- ½ cup Samak rice
- 3 cups Milk
- 2 tablespoon Raisins
- 1 tablespoon Condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon Cardamom powder
- ⅓ teaspoon Saffron
- 2 tablespoon Jaggery powder
- 1 tablespoon Pistachio powder
- 1 tablespoon almonds sliced
Instructions
- Dry roast the makhana on low-medium heat until crispy, then grind them into a coarse powder.
- In a saucepan, cook samak rice and milk together for 7-8 minutes on medium heat.
- Add the crushed makhana to the saucepan and cook for a few more minutes.
- Stir in the raisins, condensed milk, cardamom powder, and saffron.
- For additional sweetness, add jaggery or sugar if desired, and mix well.
- Serve the kheer chilled or hot, garnished with pistachio powder, sliced almonds, and saffron.
Notes
- Ensure the makhana is well-roasted to enhance its flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.
- Use full-fat milk for a creamier texture.
- Let the kheer sit for a bit after cooking to thicken up.
