Introduction
Paal Payasam is a classic temple-style sweet dish made with rice, milk, and sugar, slow-cooked to creamy perfection. It is an integral offering in many South Indian temples, especially during Navratri and special pujas.
- Preparing the Payasam
Ingredients:
- ½ cup raw rice (preferably broken or short grain)
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ghee
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
Instructions:
- Rinse and soak rice for 30 minutes.
- Boil milk in a thick-bottomed pan. Add rice and cook on low flame until soft and milk thickens.
- Stir often to avoid burning. Add sugar and cardamom.
Pro Tips
- Stir continuously after sugar is added to prevent curdling.
- Cook on a low flame for the creamiest texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm as prasadam, or chilled for festive meals.
Fun Fact
This is the South Indian version of kheer and is traditionally made without dry fruits to retain its temple-style purity.