Paal Payasam (Milk Rice Kheer)

Ingredients

• Unakkalari (payasam rice or brown rice) - 1/2 cup
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Milk - 1 l
• Water - 1/2 l
• Ghee - 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. 1Combine the milk and water in a heavy-bottomed pan and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. 2When the liquid starts to boil, add the rice and reduce the heat to a medium flame; stir occasionally so the rice does not stick.
3. 3Cook until the rice is half cooked, then add the 1 cup sugar and stir continuously so the sugar dissolves evenly.
4. 4Continue to simmer until the rice is soft and the payasam is thick in consistency, then switch off the flame.
5. 5Stir in the 1 tbsp ghee to give the payasam a glossy finish and warm flavor, then serve warm.
6. 6Taste and adjust sugar if needed before serving.
7. 7Optional: if you like, garnish with fried cashews, raisins and a pinch of cardamom powder before serving for extra texture and aroma.