Sheer Khurma

Sheer Khurma, also known as "Sheer Khorma" or "Sheer Qurma," is a traditional festive breakfast dessert that is famously served during the Muslim Eid festivals - Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The name itself is Persian, where "sheer" means milk and "khurma" means dates. This dish has its origins in the Mughal era and has been an integral part of celebrations in countries like Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and several other regions of the Indian subcontinent. With its indulgent, creamy texture, dates taking the central role play an important part in providing natural sweetness, making it a rich and hearty treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year as well.

Ingredients

• Milk - 1 liter
• Vermicelli - 100 grams
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Dates (chopped and pitted) - 100 grams
• Sugar - 100 grams
• Cashews - 50 grams
• Almonds - 50 grams, slivered
• Pistachios - 50 grams, chopped
• Raisins - 2 tablespoons
• Saffron - a pinch
• Cardamom powder - 1 teaspoon
• Rose water - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Prepping the Ingredients

1. Start by soaking the almonds and pistachios in hot water for about 20 minutes. This makes it easier to remove their skins and gives a clean look when slivered.
2. Once soaked, peel the almonds and chop them along with the pistachios.
3. Chop and pit the dates.
4. Set aside the ingredients, so you have everything ready when you begin to cook.

Cooking Sheer Khurma

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the cashews, almonds, and pistachios. Sauté until they are lightly golden brown, then remove and set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
3. In the same pan, add the raisins and sauté until they puff up. Remove and set these aside as well.
4. Break the vermicelli into smaller pieces and add them to the same pot. Roast until they are a deep golden brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Once the vermicelli is roasted, pour the milk into the pan. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer on a low flame for about 5 to 6 minutes or until the vermicelli is cooked.
6. Add the sugar and simmer until it dissolves completely. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar does not stick to the bottom.
7. Add the sautéed cashews, almonds, pistachios, dates, and raisins into the milk and vermicelli mixture.
8. Sprinkle cardamom powder and a pinch of saffron that's been soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk.
9. Finally, add rose water and give it a stir. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.

Your Sheer Khurma is ready to be served. Typically, it can be served both warm and at room temperature depending on your preference, which enhances its heavenly flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Sheer Khurma can be served in traditional bowls or glasses for an aesthetic touch.
• Garnish with more nuts or sprinkle a few strands of saffron on top for an exquisite finish.

Enjoying the Meal

Sheer Khurma is best enjoyed as a part of Eid celebrations, amidst the joy and togetherness of family and friends. Whether you're enjoying it after a meal or a light breakfast, its complex combination of flavors and textures create a delightful experience. The chewy dates, crunchy nuts, and the silkiness of the saffron-infused milk make each spoonful a rich taste of tradition.