When it comes to Indian desserts, few can match the charm of a creamy, fragrant bowl of Vermicelli Kheer. Known across India as semiya kheer, payasam semiya, or even kheer sevai, this festive favorite is simple to make, deliciously indulgent, and loaded with tradition. Whether it’s a festival, wedding, or just a family gathering, no celebration feels complete without this sweet delight.
How to Make Delicious Vermicelli Kheer at Home
The beauty of kheer semiya lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that tastes like a celebration. Roasted vermicelli simmered in milk, flavored with cardamom, and garnished with nuts, this sweets and snacks favorite is comfort and indulgence in one bowl.
Many also enjoy this as a South Indian recipe for semiya payasam, especially during Onam, Diwali, or Pongal feasts.
Simple Ingredients for the Best Semiya Payasam
The magic of vermicelli kheer comes from its balance of richness and subtle flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients for semiya payasam
- Roasted vermicelli, full-cream milk, sugar or jaggery, ghee, cardamom.
- Garnishes: Cashews, almonds, raisins (lightly fried in ghee).
- Optional: A few strands of saffron or rose water for fragrance.
You can also try alternatives like milk sewai or milk semiya to bring out a creamier texture.
2. Boil milk and add the roasted vermicelli.
Here’s a quick recipe of semiya kheer you’ll love:
1. Roast vermicelli in ghee until golden.
2. Boil milk and add the roasted vermicelli.
3. Cook until soft, then stir in sugar.
4. Flavor with cardamom, saffron, or rose water.
5. Garnish with ghee-fried nuts and raisins.
This classic kheer vermicelli recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute festive sweet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Sevai Kheer
If you’re looking for a more detailed recipe of sevai kheer, here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Heat ghee in a pan and roast kheer shevaya until light brown.
- In a separate pot, bring milk to a gentle boil.
- Add roasted vermicelli to milk and cook till soft.
- Mix in sugar or jaggery based on taste.
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking—this ensures a creamy finish.
- Add garnishes and serve warm or chilled.
Pro tip: Always use full-fat milk for the creamiest recipe of vermicelli kheer.
Healthy Twists on Traditional Vermicelli Kheer
Love semiya kheer but want a healthier version? Here are some smart swaps:
- Replace sugar with jaggery, dates, or honey.
- Use organic payasam vermicelli or millet-based options for added nutrition.
- Add superfoods like chia seeds or flax seeds for an extra boost.
- For diabetics, try sugar-free semiya kheer recipes with natural sweeteners.
With these tweaks, you can enjoy the richness of the recipe for semiya payasam without the guilt.
Conclusion
Whether you call it semiya payasam, sevai kheer, or kheer vermicelli recipe, this dessert has a special place in Indian kitchens. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and rich in flavor, Vermicelli Kheer is more than just a sweet dish, it’s a celebration in every spoonful.
So, the next time you’re planning a festive menu or simply craving something sweet, remember that a bowl of kheer is just a few steps away.
FAQs
What is vermicelli kheer made of?
It is made of roasted vermicelli, milk, sugar, cardamom, and nuts, forming a creamy dessert.
Is vermicelli with milk good for health?
Yes, milk sewai combines protein from milk and energy from vermicelli, making it wholesome when eaten in moderation.
Which vermicelli is best for kheer?
Thin roasted vermicelli or special payasam vermicelli works best as it cooks quickly and blends well with milk.
What is vermicelli made out of?
Traditional vermicelli is made from wheat, though there are rice-based and millet-based versions too.
Is vermicelli healthy or unhealthy?
Semiya kheer can be healthy if made with milk, nuts, and less sugar. Portion control makes it a guilt-free indulgence.
