Greetings, food lovers! Today, I am here to introduce you to a new dessert recipe that is not only flavorful but also healthy. If you are someone who loves desserts but worries about the health implications of indulging in them, you are in luck. This vegan chia kheer (Indian pudding dessert) recipe is just what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth without any guilt.

Kheer, also known as Indian rice pudding, is an extremely popular dessert in India and other South Asian countries. Traditionally prepared with dairy milk and sugar, it’s not always an option for people who follow vegan or dairy-free diets. That’s where our vegan chia kheer recipe comes in handy. It uses tasty plant-based ingredients to make a delicious and creamy pudding that’s perfect for anyone.

If you’re looking for a flavorful alternative to traditional rice pudding or if you’re just exploring your options when it comes to Indian desserts, look no further. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort. In fact, you can even whip it up in no time using the instant pot method!

So, are you ready to discover a new favorite dessert? Let’s get started with our vegan chia kheer (Indian pudding dessert) recipe!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan Chia Kheer (Indian Pudding Dessert)

Are you looking for a vegan dessert that is both delicious and healthy? Look no further than this Vegan Chia Kheer! You’ll love this recipe for many reasons:

Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and under 20 minutes, you can have a delightful dessert at your table.

Secondly, this dish is packed with nutrients. Chia seeds are a good source of fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Plus, coconut milk is full of healthy fats that help in weight loss and improve digestion.

Thirdly, vegan chia kheer is versatile. You can tailor the recipe to your liking by adding different nuts, fruits or spices such as dried coconut flakes or sliced bananas.

Fourthly, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a dish to a potluck or just craving something sweet after dinner, vegan chia kheer is sure to please everyone.

Finally, this recipe provides an excellent alternative to traditional Indian rice pudding that contains dairy products such as milk and ghee. As we know, the use of dairy ingredients in desserts can cause problems for those who are intolerant or have ethical concerns.

In summary, there are plenty of reasons why you’ll love this vegan chia kheer recipe. It’s quick and easy to make, nutrient-dense for your body at any time of day, adaptable to fit various tastes, fitting for any occasion, eliminates the use of dairy-based products making it an excellent alternative to traditional Indian rice pudding recipes. Don’t miss out on trying it; trust me; you won’t regret it!

Ingredient List

A sweet and creamy vegan twist to a classic Indian dessert

Let’s Take a Look at the Ingredients You’ll Need:

Chia Seeds – 6 tbsp
Liquid Sweetener (vegan) – 4 tbsp
Coconut Milk (carton, canned or soy milk) – 2 cups
Saffron Strands – 10-15
Ground Cardamom – 1/4 tsp
Pistachios, chopped – 1/4 cup
Raisins and/or Currants – 1/4 cup
Brown Rice, Basmati Rice or Quinoa (optional) – 1/4 to 1 cup

Note: To make this recipe nut-free, you can omit the pistachios, or replace them with some chopped coconut flakes.

You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store, but some may require a trip to a specialty store or online order. Don’t let this discourage you! Once you’ve gathered everything you need, the recipe is quite simple to make.

The Recipe How-To

The perfect dessert for a warm summer night

Here’s how to make this delightful vegan Chia Kheer recipe at home!

Preparation Time: 5 mins
Cooking Time: 45-50 Mins
Ingredients:

2 cups coconut milk (carton or canned)
6 tbsp chia seeds
4 tbsp liquid sweetener (vegan)
1/4 cup uncooked brown rice
6 threads saffron
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Raisins, currants, or chopped dates, to taste
2 tbsp coconut flakes or chopped pistachios (optional)

Instructions:

Rinse the brown rice and put it in a saucepan with enough water to cover it. Bring it to a boil before lowering the heat and allowing it to cook for around 20 minutes, until tender.
Drain the remaining water from the rice and combine it with the coconut milk in a large pot on medium heat.
Add the saffron, cardamom powder, and raisins, currants or dates, and bring boiling while stirring occasionally.
Slowly pour in the chia seeds while continuously stirring the mixture. The chia seeds will begin to absorb some of the liquid and thicken.
Reduce heat to low-medium and cook for another 25-30 minutes until the pudding thickens.
Stir in the liquid sweetener of your choice into the kheer and then remove from heat.
Garnish with chopped nuts or coconut flakes if desired.
Transfer your vegan chai kheer pudding into bowls or glass containers and chill them in your fridge for an hour or two before garnishing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade vegan Chia Kheer!

Substitutions and Variations

Indulge in a delicious and guilt-free dessert with our vegan Chia Kheer

Are you in the mood to experiment with different flavors and ingredients? Then you’re in luck because this vegan chia kheer recipe is versatile and can be customized with different substitutions and variations.

For starters, if you don’t have chia seeds on hand, you can try using other seeds such as flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. These seeds have similar nutritional benefits and are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats.

If you prefer a different sweetener than the ones suggested in the ingredient list, feel free to experiment with other liquid sweeteners like honey, maple syrup or agave nectar. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.

For those who are lactose-intolerant or dairy-free, you can replace the coconut milk with almond milk or soy milk for a creamier texture. You could also use rice milk or oat milk for a nuttier flavor.

To add an interesting twist to your vegan chia kheer pudding, you may use shredded carrots to make a carrot pudding or quinoa to make quinoa kheer- both popular Indian desserts. If you prefer added crunchiness to your pudding, try topping it off with chopped pistachios, raisins or currants.

You could also add flavors such as vanilla extract or ground cardamom for extra aroma and taste. Finally, if you enjoy mangoes, give mango chia kheer a shot by adding fresh mango puree during the cooking process.

All of these substitutions will help keep things interesting in the kitchen while maintaining this pudding dessert’s vegan identity. Ultimately, it’s all about exploring flavor options that cater to your personal preferences and dietary restrictions.

Serving and Pairing

The goodness of chia seeds mixed with Indian dessert flavors

Once your vegan chia kheer is cooked to perfection, it’s time to explore some delicious pairing options. This Indian pudding dessert is a versatile treat that can be served hot or cold depending on your preference. You can enjoy this creamy dessert on its own, or you can add toppings to elevate the flavors and give more texture.

One classic way to serve kheer is in small bowls or glass containers topped with a handful of raw pistachios, raisins, and/or currants for additional sweetness and color. The pistachios’ nutty flavor and golden green hue complement the rich and creamy base of the kheer so well. For an extra tropical twist, add a sprinkle of shredded coconut flakes on top.

If you have a sweet tooth or want to go all out, try serving your vegan chia kheer with freshly cut mango chunks. The sweet and juicy fruit perfectly balances the rich, creaminess of the kheer. It will also add a bright burst of color that’s just perfect for summer.

If you are vegan and lactose-intolerant, pair your vegan chia kheer with dairy-free milk such as almond milk or soy milk for that extra creaminess without compromising flavor. You can also opt for carrot pudding—a popular vegan version of kheer made with grated carrots instead of rice—to make it even lighter.

So there you have it – some great options when serving your vegan chia kheer. The choice is yours!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One spoonful and you'll be transported to the streets of India — One spoonful and you’ll be transported to the streets of India

Making vegan chia kheer ahead of time is an excellent way to save time and serve a refreshing dessert instantly. You can make this dessert the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve it. The chia pudding should thicken up overnight, making it perfect for serving.

When storing your vegan chia kheer, be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent any moisture or air from getting in. This will keep your pudding fresh and prevent the flavors from deteriorating quickly. It is essential to label the container with the date you stored it, so you remember when you made it.

To reheat leftovers, transfer the chia kheer into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for about 30 seconds. Stir the mixture and add more milk if required.

When it comes to shelf life, this chia kheer is suitable for eating within three days of making. If you have any leftovers after three days, throw them away because we do not want anyone getting sick.

In conclusion, storing and reheating vegan chia kheer is simple and straightforward. By following these guidelines for make-ahead storage and reheating techniques, your pudding will always come out perfectly every time.

Tips for Perfect Results

A dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious — A dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious

To ensure that your vegan chia kheer comes out perfectly every time, there are a few tips and tricks that you can follow.

Firstly, make sure to use high-quality ingredients. The flavor and texture of the dish will be greatly affected by the ingredients you choose. Choose fresh coconut flakes, raisins, currants, and pistachios to enhance the flavors in your dish.

It’s also important to measure your ingredients accurately. If you add too much or too little of an ingredient, it can mess up the texture of the pudding. Make sure to use measuring cups and spoons to get it right.

Another tip is to toast the nuts before adding them to the pudding. This step helps to bring out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. Simply heat a skillet over medium heat, add your nuts and stir occasionally for three to four minutes.

When incorporating chia seeds into your pudding, whisk them thoroughly with your other ingredients. This will prevent them from clumping together and ensure a smooth pudding texture.

To add colorful visual impact to your pudding, use saffron strands soaked in warm water. It is also highly recommended using premium quality saffron since it is so important that this marvelous spice have power-packed stigmas.

Finally, give yourself plenty of time for the kheer to cool down in the refrigerator before serving. At least 3-4 hours should be enough time for everything to set before digging in! Patience is key when it comes to making this dish!

By following these tips, you’re sure to create a delicious and unforgettable vegan chia kheer that will leave your taste buds soaring!

FAQ

As with any recipe, there may be some questions or concerns that arise during the preparation and cooking process. To ensure success and avoid any confusion, let’s address some frequently asked questions regarding this vegan Chia Kheer recipe.

Is chia pudding actually good for you?

If you’re looking for a healthy breakfast or snack option that’s both delicious and nutritious, chia pudding is an excellent choice. Chia seeds are packed with essential nutrients, including omega 3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants and fiber, making them a superfood for your body. The soluble fiber in chia seeds can also aid in weight loss and alleviate constipation by keeping you feeling satisfied for longer periods of time.

What are the benefits of chia pudding for PCOS?

Chia seeds have the potential to be advantageous for individuals with PCOS because of their high concentration of antioxidants. Consuming them may aid in reducing insulin resistance and promoting weight loss, which are common concerns for women with PCOS.

How much time chia seeds should be soaked for pudding?

To achieve a chewy texture similar to tapioca pudding, I suggest soaking 1/4 cup of seeds in 1 cup of almond milk or water for about 20 minutes. You can use chia seeds for this method and it’s helpful to know that the soaked seeds can last up to 5 days in the fridge. This means you can prepare a larger amount of soaked chia seeds at the beginning of the week to use for multiple recipes.

Bottom Line

Are you ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with a healthier dessert option? The vegan Chia Kheer recipe is a perfect choice! This Indian pudding dessert offers a taste explosion of flavors, including ground cardamom, saffron strands, and coconut flakes. Plus, it’s packed with the health benefits of chia seeds, which help support weight loss.

Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe for yourself and see how delicious plant-based desserts can be. Impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills and inspire them to try vegan cooking too.

Remember, veganism isn’t just about refusing animal products; it’s about choosing healthier, ethical, and sustainable options. So next time you need a dessert fix, turn to the Vegan Chia Kheer recipe for a satisfying treat that benefits both you and the planet.

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Jolo

Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.

Indulge in This Creamy and Wholesome Vegan Chia Kheer Today