Semai Da Paysa

This year, we did not keep Ganpati due to certain personal reasons and I was missing the festivities big time. Every year mom makes the chana dal sabudana payasam but this year since I was doing all the cooking, decided to try the vermicelli one which we call Semai Da payasa.

I have never liked kheer much and usually refuse when offered but in the past couple of years have started loving the one made by my friend Alifya. I specifically made this version because of that. Enjoyed it to the core 

INGREDIENTS

1.5 cup fine vermicelli
1.5 cup full fat milk (boiled and cooled)
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup ghee
Handful slivered almonds
Handful chopped pistachios
1 tsp cardamom powder
Pinch of saffron soaked in few tsps of warm milk

  1. Roast the vermicelli in ghee till it gets a nice golden colour. Ensure its even so use a big vessel ot roast in batches.
  2. Add the almonds and pistachios towards the end of the roasting session and fry them off well. U can add other nuts or died fruit too.
  3. Warm the milk and add the sugar and elaichi allowing it to dissolve. Adjust the sugar as per taste. U can add little at a time to adjust the sweetness as per your preference.
  4. Add this sweet milk to the vermicelli and mix gently. Allow to cook till you see the ghee float on top.
  5. Add the saffron and give it a mix. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if too thick.
  6. Shut the gas and serve hot.

Serves 5