National Rice Pudding Day, celebrated on August 9, is a delightful occasion to indulge in this classic and comforting dessert. Rice pudding, with its creamy texture and sweet, comforting flavours, has been a beloved treat across cultures and generations. National Rice Pudding Day is the perfect time to savour this delicious dessert and perhaps even try your hand at making it from scratch. The process of cooking rice pudding, with its soothing aroma and creamy consistency, can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience. So, enjoy a bowl of rice pudding today and share this classic favourite with friends and family, celebrating the simple joy that a well-made dessert can bring.  As you celebrate National Rice Pudding Day 2024, we bring you diverse rice pudding prepared in different parts of India.

'Chaler Payesh'

In West Bengal, rice pudding is known as "Payesh." This variation is made with gobindobhog rice, which is aromatic and short-grained. "Payesh" is cooked with milk, sugar, and flavoured with cardamom. It is often garnished with raisins, cashews, and sometimes coconut. It’s traditionally offered as a prasad (offering) during festivals and special occasions.

Watch Recipe Video of 'Chaler Payesh'

South Indian 'Paal Payasam'

"Paal Payasam" is a popular rice pudding in South India, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This dessert is made by slow-cooking rice in a mixture of milk and sugar until it becomes creamy and thick. It is typically flavoured with cardamom and sometimes enriched with coconut milk. Cashews, raisins, and a touch of ghee are used for added richness and flavour.

Watch Recipe Video of 'Paal Payasam'

Punjabi 'Kheer'

In Punjab, rice pudding is known as "Kheer" and is often made with basmati rice, which imparts a lovely aroma. Punjabi "Kheer" is cooked in full-fat milk and sweetened with sugar, with cardamom and saffron providing aromatic depth. It is commonly garnished with nuts like almonds and pistachios, and sometimes a drizzle of rose water is added for an extra layer of fragrance.

Watch Recipe Video of Punjabi 'Kheer'

Maharashtrian 'Amrakhand'

"Amrakhand" is a variant of rice pudding that includes mango, particularly popular during mango season. While traditionally made with rice, this version incorporates ripe mango pulp into the cooked rice pudding, infusing it with a vibrant fruit flavour. It is sweetened with sugar and garnished with nuts and cardamom, offering a tropical twist on the classic dessert.

Watch Recipe Video of Maharashtrian 'Amrakhand'

Gujarati 'Chaas Pulao'

In Gujarat, "Chaas Pulao" is a unique variation that blends rice pudding with savoury elements. Unlike the sweet versions, this dish is prepared with yogurt (chaas) and rice, making it a slightly tangy and spicy dish. It is flavoured with spices like cumin and mustard seeds, and often includes vegetables or lentils, providing a savoury alternative to traditional rice pudding.

Watch Recipe Video of Gujarati 'Chaas Pulao'

Whether enjoyed plain, spiced with cinnamon, or adorned with fruit and nuts, rice pudding brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to any meal. National Rice Pudding Day is a day to appreciate this versatile dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with indulgence. Wishing everyone Happy National Rice Pudding Day 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 09, 2024 05:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).