Sheer Khurma – A Sweet Tradition With a Rich Legacy
Sheer Khurma is a luxurious, milk-based dessert deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, especially during Eid celebrations. Made with toasted vermicelli, milk, dates, nuts, and aromatic spices, this dish is a festive staple across South Asia and the Middle East. Whether served warm or chilled, it evokes nostalgic memories of family, culture, and celebration.
Equipment
- Deep saucepan or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Small frying pan (for roasting nuts)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle (for serving)
- Serving bowls or dessert glasses
Ingredients
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup roasted vermicelli thin seviyan
- 8 –10 seedless chopped dates
- 1/3 cup sugar adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons cashews
- 1 tablespoon raisins
- 1 tablespoon pistachios
- 4 green cardamom pods lightly crushed
- 1 teaspoon rose water or kewra essence optional
- Few saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
Instructions
- Roast Vermicelli: Heat ghee in a deep pan over medium heat. Add vermicelli and roast until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Toast Dry Fruits: In the same pan, lightly fry almonds, cashews, pistachios, and raisins in the remaining ghee. Set aside.
- Boil Milk: Pour milk into the pan and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Dates & Cardamom: Add chopped dates and crushed cardamom to the simmering milk. Cook for another 5–7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in roasted vermicelli, sugar, and the toasted dry fruits. Let it cook for 5–8 minutes until vermicelli softens.
- Flavor Finish: Add saffron milk and rose water or kewra. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes before turning off the heat.
- Serve: Serve warm for comfort or chilled for a pudding-like treat. Garnish with extra nuts or rose petals if desired.
Notes
For a richer version, add condensed milk or extra saffron.
To make it vegan, use coconut or almond milk, plant-based ghee, and natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup.
Sheer Khurma can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk.
Customize the texture—thicker like pudding or thinner like soup—by adjusting the milk quantity.
Perfect for Eid-ul-Fitr breakfast, festive brunches, or served in mini glasses at dinner parties.