Sweet Dreams are Made of Oats: A Delicious and Nutritious Oats Kheer by Dt. Alka Gangwani at Nutri Wellbeing

Looking for a healthy and satisfying dessert that won’t leave you feeling guilty? Look no further than Oats Kheer! This delightful recipe combines the goodness of oats with the comforting flavors of traditional Indian kheer, making it a perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition.

At Nutri Wellbeing, we believe in creating desserts that are as delicious as they are good for you. Oats Kheer is a prime example – it’s packed with fiber and protein from the oats, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, it’s customizable with natural sweeteners and healthy toppings, making it a guilt-free treat.

Here’s how to create this easy and nutritious dessert:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ghee
• ½ cup rolled oats (or steel-cut oats)
• 2-3 cups milk (whole milk, low-fat milk, or plant-based milk like almond milk)
• 1-2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or adjust to your taste preference)
• A few leaves of stevia (optional, for a very low-calorie option)
• Chopped dry fruits (almonds, walnuts, your favorites)
• Raisins
• A few saffron strands (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat.

2. Add the rolled oats (or steel-cut oats) to the pan and dry roast for a minute or two, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chosen milk (2-3 cups), depending on how thick you want your kheer to be. Start with 2 cups and add more if needed later.

4. Add your preferred sweetener – 1-2 tablespoons of coconut sugar or a few leaves of stevia (if using). You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference and the sweetness of your chosen milk.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the oats soften slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. While the kheer simmers, chop your favorite dry fruits like almonds and walnuts.

7. Once the oats are softened, turn off the flame.

8. Now it’s time to add the delicious toppings! Gently fold in the chopped dry fruits, raisins, a few saffron strands (for extra flavor and visual appeal), and a sprinkle of cardamom powder.

9. Optional: If your kheer seems too thin, simmer it for an additional minute or two, but be mindful not to overcook it. The kheer will thicken as it cools.

10. Serve your Oats Kheer warm or chilled, according to your preference.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute a tablespoon of ghee with cashewnut paste.
• To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based milk and skip the ghee.
• Don’t have coconut sugar? You can use honey, maple syrup, or another natural sweetener of your choice. Just adjust the quantity based on the sweetness of the sweetener.
• Play around with the toppings! Add chopped nuts, seeds, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of chocolate for a personalized touch.

Oats Kheer is a healthy and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. So ditch the sugary treats and embrace the taste and goodness of this nutritious recipe!

Stay tuned for more delicious and guilt-free dessert options at Nutri Wellbeing!