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Saffron breakfast kheer recipe for a delicious start

Saffron breakfast kheer is a delightful vegan dish that reimagines a traditional Indian dessert into a wholesome morning treat. This creamy pudding blends long-grain brown rice with the richness of unsweetened almond milk, enhanced by the fragrant notes of cardamom, cinnamon, and the delicate essence of saffron. With the addition of cashew nuts, blanched almonds, and golden raisins, every spoonful offers a comforting and nourishing start to the day, perfect for those seeking a healthy breakfast option.

Ideal for a leisurely weekend brunch or a special occasion, this kheer is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The natural sweetness of honey and the zesty hint of lime elevate the dish, while toasted coconut flakes provide a lovely textural contrast. This vegan delight is a wonderful way to embrace plant-based eating without compromising on flavour or comfort.

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Ingredients for Saffron breakfast kheer

  • 150 g long-grain brown rice

  • 100 g cashew nuts

  • 50 g blanched almonds

  • 1 L almond milk, unsweetened

  • 6 cardamom pods

  • 100 g raisins, golden

  • 1 tsp ground ginger

  • A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 50 ml boiling water (optional)

  • 1 small cinnamon stick

  • 30 ml golden honey

  • Zest of 1 unwaxed lime

  • A small handful toasted coconut flakes

How to make Saffron breakfast kheer

  1. Soak the rice in one bowl and the cashews and almonds in another bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.

  2. The following morning, drain the rice and transfer it to a saucepan. Add the milk and 500 ml of cold water, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 minutes until the rice has puffed up and the liquid begins to thicken.

  3. Meanwhile, drain the nuts and finely chop them; you can use a food processor if preferred. Bash the cardamom pods in a mortar with a pestle, or use a mixing bowl and rolling pin to crush them. Remove the fragrant seeds, discard the pods, and grind the seeds until powdered.

  4. After 20 minutes, add the chopped nuts, raisins, ground spices, and honey to the rice. Cook for a further 15 minutes until thick and creamy, aiming for a consistency between rice pudding and porridge. The rice should be soft with very little bite, and the kheer creamy but not overly thick. If it thickens too quickly, reduce the heat and add a splash of boiling water from the kettle.

  5. Serve the kheer spooned into bowls, topped with lime zest and coconut flakes. If desired, drizzle a little extra honey over the top for added sweetness.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 30 Oct 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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