Sweet Rice Recipe You Didn’t Know You Could Make in 20 Minutes
Sweet rice is one of those comfort foods that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Loved across India, it’s often prepared during festivals, family gatherings, or just as a quick, satisfying dessert. If you’ve always thought making sweet rice is time-consuming, this sweet rice recipe proves otherwise—you can whip it up in just 20 minutes without compromising on taste or richness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this quick rice sweet recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups milk (or coconut milk for a creamier texture)
- ½ cup sugar or jaggery
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
- A few raisins
- Optional: saffron strands for aroma
This recipe is flexible. You can adjust sweetness to your preference, make it vegan by using plant-based milk, or even add fruits for a modern twist.
How to Make Sweet Rice in 20 Minutes
1. Rinse and Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly under running water. This removes excess starch and keeps the grains fluffy. In a pan, combine the rice with milk and cook on medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the milk doesn’t stick to the bottom. Within 12–15 minutes, the rice will absorb most of the milk and become soft.
2. Sweeten and Flavor
Once your rice is cooked, stir in sugar or jaggery. Sprinkle cardamom powder for a fragrant, traditional Indian flavor. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes so the sweetness and aroma meld perfectly.
3. Add Nuts and Ghee
In a small pan, heat ghee and lightly roast the nuts and raisins until golden brown. This step enhances the flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. Fold them into the sweet rice.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Your sweet rice is ready! Serve it warm for a comforting dessert, or allow it to cool slightly for a snack that’s perfect anytime
Tips for Perfect Sweet Rice
- Always use basmati rice—it’s aromatic and gives a light, fluffy texture.
- Stir frequently to prevent the milk from sticking.
- For festive occasions, a few saffron strands soaked in warm milk can elevate the dish.
- Don’t skip roasting the nuts—they add texture and richness.
Variations to Try
This sweet rice recipe Indian style can be customized:
- Coconut Sweet Rice: Replace half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Fruit-Infused Sweet Rice: Add mango, pomegranate, or berries to make it fruity and colorful.
- Vegan Sweet Rice: Use almond or oat milk and coconut sugar for a vegan-friendly dessert.
Why This Recipe Works
Unlike complicated desserts, this quick rice sweet recipe balances speed and flavor. It’s creamy, aromatic, and indulgent, yet incredibly simple. Whether you are preparing a last-minute dessert or a festive treat, this recipe fits perfectly into your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Making sweet rice doesn’t have to take hours. With this recipe, using fragrant Keshar Kali rice, you can enjoy a traditional Indian sweet rice dish in just 20 minutes. Its natural aroma and soft texture elevate the flavor, making it perfect for families, celebrations, or even a solo indulgence after a long day. Quick, versatile, and delicious, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients—like Keshar Kali rice—create the most satisfying desserts.