Guyanese sweet rice in a spoon above a bowl

Indulge in the rich and luscious flavors of Guyanese Sweet Rice aka Kheer, a traditional dessert that has been delighting taste buds for generations. This creamy, aromatic dish, also known as rice pudding, combines rice, sweet condensed milk, and an array of aromatic spices.  Rice pudding is a simple dish which can be found around the round.  Many countries have their own version such as arroz con leche, rizogalo, rijstpap and many more!

overhead shot of kheer in a bowl

 A Taste of Tradition: Guyanese Style Rice Pudding

Guyanese Sweet Rice is more than a dessert; it’s a cultural experience. Rooted in the rich culinary heritage of Guyana and it’s culinary and cultural influences. With roots tracing back to the Indian, this dish is testament to the cultural melting pot that is Guyana. The fragrant aroma of cardamom, cinnamon and nutmeg mingles with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

Kheer is not just a dessert; it’s also served at celebrations and festivals. It graces tables during Diwali, Eid, and other significant occasions.  With the upcoming Diwali, this would be the perfect time to give this dish a try. 

cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon displayed

The Essential Components

  • Rice: The foundation of this dish, long grain rice gives it a delicate texture and creaminess.
  • Sweet Condensed Milk, Evaporated Milk and Powdered Milk: Infusing the kheer with a creamy sweetness, condensed milk while the evaporated milk and powdered milk add richness as it binds the dish together.
  • Aromatic Spices: Fragrant cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon elevate the flavor profile.
Guyanese sweet rice in a bowl

Step-by-Step Guide to Kheer

  • Rinsing and Soaking: Begin by washing the rice thoroughly and allowing it to soak for about 30 minutes. This softens the grains, ensuring a creamy texture.
  • Simmering to Perfection: Cook the rice in a mixture of water and milk until it’s tender. This process allows the rice to absorb the flavors while achieving the desired consistency.
  • Sweetening the Pot: Once the rice is cooked, add the sweet condensed milk. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, bearing in mind that it will thicken further as it cools.
  • Infusing Aromatics: Sprinkle in the cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon, letting them meld with the creamy concoction.
  • The Nutty Finish(optional): Toss in a generous handful of chopped currants, raisins or glazed cherries.
two bowls of kheer

Other Desserts to try

Guyanese sweet rice in a bowl

Get the Recipe Guyanese Sweet Rice/Kheer

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Ingredients
 

  • 5 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/2 cup rice
  • 12 oz can evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup powdered milk
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp cardamom
  • 3/4 cup condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 drop almond extract

Instructions
 

  • Add water and cinnamon stick to a pot and bring to a boil.
  • Wash rice and soak while water comes to a boil.
  • Add rice to pot and cook for 15 minutes, until its softened.
  • Add evaporated milk, milk powder, nutmeg and cardamom and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thicken and the rice is tender. Add additional water if it cooks down before the rice softens.
  • Add condensed milk, vanilla and almond extracts and stir to combine. Serve warm or cold.

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Author: Jehan Powell