Janmashtami, the auspicious festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, is observed with immense enthusiasm across India. This year, Janmashtami falls on August 26, Monday. According to religious beliefs, Lord Krishna was born at midnight under the Rohini Nakshatra. Temples are beautifully decorated on this day, showcasing the stories and miracles of Lord Krishna, making it a highly awaited occasion for devotees. Many people observe fasts, and at midnight, Laddu Gopal is bathed and dressed in new clothes, accompanied by offerings of various delicacies.
Devotees present an array of offerings to Lord Krishna, which traditionally includes items like butter and sugar, Mohan bhog, shrikhand, panjeeri, and malpua. This year, consider adding a delightful treat to your offerings – Makhana Kheer. This creamy dessert, made from fox nuts, is not only delicious but also holds a special place during the festivities. Below is a detailed recipe for preparing Makhana Kheer.
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fox nuts (Makhana) | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup (adjust to taste) |
| Milk | 4 cups |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashews (chopped) | 10-12 |
| Almonds (chopped) | 10-12 |
| Raisins | 10-12 |
| Cardamom powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Saffron | A pinch |
Steps to Prepare Makhana Kheer
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Makhana Kheer:
- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add the fox nuts (makhanas) and roast them on low heat until they turn golden and crispy. Once roasted, remove them and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pan, pour in 4 cups of milk and bring it to a boil. Stir continuously to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- When the milk begins to boil, add the roasted fox nuts. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat. This will allow the milk to thicken and become rich in flavor.
- Add the chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins to the boiling milk and mix thoroughly. Incorporate the cardamom powder for an aromatic touch.
- If using saffron, dissolve a pinch in a bit of warm milk and add it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor and color of the kheer.
- Finally, add sugar to taste and continue to cook until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Once prepared, turn off the heat and allow the kheer to cool down slightly. Serve warm or chilled, as per your preference.
Makhana Kheer is a luscious dessert that is not only a perfect offering for Lord Krishna but also a delightful treat for your family. With a combination of rich flavors and health benefits from fox nuts, this dish epitomizes the spirit of Janmashtami celebrations. Enjoy this festive season with the sweetness of Makhana Kheer!
