SWEET MILK RICE

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash the rice two to three times and set aside.

2. 2

   Soak the roasted cleaned split or whole moong dhal in three cups of water for few hours.

3. 3

   Add the milk in a deep saucepan and boil the milk until it rises up to the top of the pan.

4. 4

   Add the washed rice, water, cardamom, salt (optional) and the soaked moong dhal (optional).

5. 5

   Simmer on a very low fire stirring occasionally until the rice and dhal is well cooked.

6. 6

   The rice may take up to twenty five to thirty minutes.

7. 7

   The milk rice should turn soft.

8. 8

   Add some hot water if it is too dry.

9. 9

   Add the chopped dates, sultanas and cashew nuts and cook for one minute.

10. 10

    The fruits could be lightly fried in butter or ghee for extra flavour (optional).

11. 11

    Turn off the fire and add the brown sugar or palm sugar and mix well.

12. 12

    Spread the rice on a flat plate and flatten to form the shape of the plate.

13. 13

    Sweet milk rice is cooked for Special Occasions and New Year Celebrations.

14. 14

    It is called pongal, pukkai or kiribath.

15. 15

    This recipe is the traditional way of cooking.

16. 16

    This rice is also served for breakfast.