As the auspicious festival of Navratri begins, devotees worship Goddess Shailputri on the first day with great श्रद्धा (devotion). On this sacred occasion, makhana kheer serves as a perfect offering—light, nutritious, and ideal for those observing a fast. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to preparing this flavorful dessert at home.

Ingredients Required

To prepare makhana kheer, you will need:

• 1 litre full-cream milk

• 2 cups makhana (fox nuts)

• 3 teaspoons sugar (adjust as per taste)

• 8–10 almonds (chopped)

• 8–10 cashews (chopped)

• 15–16 raisins

• ½ teaspoon green cardamom powder

• 1 teaspoon ghee

Step 1: Roasting the Makhana

Begin by heating ghee in a pan. Add the makhanas and roast them on low flame until they turn crisp. This step enhances their flavor and texture. Once done, set them aside. Chop almonds and cashews and keep them ready.

Step 2: Preparing the Makhana Mixture

Allow the roasted makhanas to cool. Meanwhile, soak the raisins in water. Lightly grind the makhanas in a mixer—ensure they are coarsely ground, not powdered, to retain texture in the kheer.

Step 3: Thickening the Milk

Take a heavy-bottomed pan and pour in the milk. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the milk thickens.

Step 4: Cooking the Kheer

Add the coarsely ground makhanas to the thickened milk. Let them cook well so they absorb the milk and soften, enhancing the taste and consistency of the kheer.

Step 5: Adding Flavour and Sweetness

Once the makhanas are fully cooked, add chopped almonds, cashews, and soaked raisins. Mix in sugar according to taste, followed by cardamom powder for aroma. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes.

Serving Suggestion

Serve the makhana kheer warm or chilled as per preference. It can be offered as bhog during Navratri or enjoyed as a healthy dessert.