Traditional Feni Kheer for Sargi (फेनी खीर) – Aromatic Sweet Vermicelli Delight

⏱️ 20m prep 🔥 30m cook 🍽️ 4 servings
MABAPU TM Vegetarian (Veg)
Healthy Diet
⏱️ Prep 20m
🔥 Cook 30m
🍽️ Serves 4
🔢 kcal 2663.00

Imagine the first light of Karwa Chauth, the kitchen filled with the gentle hiss of milk bubbling, the golden hue of saffron unfurling its perfume, and the crisp whisper of roasted vermicelli soaking up a sweet, fragrant broth. This Traditional Feni Kheer for Sargi (फेनी खीर) captures that sunrise magic in every spoonful – a silky, amber‑colored kheer where the subtle bite of Goan feni meets the comforting richness of pure desi cow ghee, milk, and caramelised sugar. While many commercial eateries cut corners with refined palm oil, artificial colors, and a dash of MSG to speed up production, this Mabapu‑crafted version stays true to heritage, using only whole, unadulterated ingredients. The result is a healthier, naturally sweet dessert that sings with the aroma of saffron, cardamom[1][2], and toasted coconut, delivering a balanced indulgence without the hidden chemicals.

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IngredientsEverything you need
500 ml Full‑fat Milk (दूध)
500 ml
100 ml Feni (फेनी) – Goan cashew spirit
100 ml
150 g Granulated Sugar (चीनी)
150 gram
100 g Roasted Vermicelli (भुना हुआ सूजी/वर्मिसेली)
100 gram
2 tbsp Pure Desi Cow Ghee (शुद्ध देसी घी)
2 tablespoon
0.5 g Saffron Strands (केसर)
0.5 gram
4 Green Cardamom[1][2] Pods, slightly crushed (इलायची)
4
20 g Blanched Almonds, sliced (बादाम)
20 gram
20 g Blanched Pistachios, sliced (पिस्ता)
20 gram
1 tsp Rose Water (गुलाब जल)
1 teaspoon
1 tbsp Toasted Coconut Flakes (भुना हुआ नारियल)
1 tablespoon
A pinch of Nutmeg Powder (जायफल)
A pinch of Pink Salt (नमक) – optional for balance
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InstructionsStep by step
1
Phase 1: Preparation & Setup

Gather all ingredients on a clean countertop. Measure milk, sugar, and vermicelli into separate bowls. Lightly toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan on Medium Flame / Madhyam Aanch until golden and fragrant – you’ll hear a gentle crackling and smell a sweet, nutty aroma. Set aside.

2
Phase 1: Preparation & Setup

In a small cup, warm 2 tbsp of Milk over Low Flame / Dheemi Aanch and add the saffron strands. Let the saffron release its deep orange colour and floral scent for 2‑3 minutes – the milk will turn a rich amber hue.

3
Phase 2: Sautéing & Tempering

Heat a heavy‑bottomed saucepan on Medium Flame / Madhyam Aanch. Add the Pure Desi Cow Ghee and let it melt; you’ll notice a soft sizzle and a faint buttery aroma as the ghee begins to shimmer.

4
Phase 2: Sautéing & Tempering

Add the crushed cardamom[1][2] pods to the ghee. Stir for 20 seconds until the spices bloom, releasing a sweet, citrusy perfume that fills the kitchen.

5
Phase 2: Sautéing & Tempering

Introduce the roasted vermicelli to the pan. Toss on Medium Flame / Madhyam Aanch for 1‑2 minutes, listening for a gentle crackle as the vermicelli becomes lightly toasted and takes on a glossy coat of ghee.

6
Phase 3: Simmering & Sauce

Pour the remaining Milk (500 ml) into the saucepan. Increase to High Flame / Tez Aanch and bring to a rolling boil. Watch the surface as tiny bubbles rise and the milk froths, a clear sign of vigorous heat.

7
Phase 3: Simmering & Sauce

Stir in the saffron‑infused milk, the Granulated Sugar, and a pinch of Pink Salt. Reduce to Medium Flame / Madhyam Aanch; the sugar will dissolve with a soft, melodic fizz, and the mixture will turn a velvety amber color.

8
Phase 3: Simmering & Sauce

Add the Feni slowly while stirring. You’ll hear a gentle hissing as the alcohol melds with the hot milk, and a subtle floral aroma will rise – this is the signature note of the kheer.

9
Phase 3: Simmering & Sauce

Simmer on Low Flame / Dheemi Aanch for 8‑10 minutes, allowing the vermicelli to absorb the sweet broth. The kheer should thicken slightly, coating the vermicelli with a glossy sheen. Check texture with a fork – the vermicelli should be tender yet retain a slight bite.

10
Phase 4: Finishing & Serving

Turn off the heat. Drizzle 1 tsp Rose Water and the Toasted Coconut Flakes over the kheer; a fragrant rose‑sweet perfume will instantly fill the air.

11
Phase 4: Finishing & Serving

Chef’s Secret: Spoon in 1 tsp cold melted ghee (prepared earlier) and stir gently. The cold ghee creates a glossy, restaurant‑level finish that locks in moisture and adds a silky mouthfeel.

12
Phase 4: Finishing & Serving

Garnish with sliced almonds, pistachios, and a light dusting of Nutmeg Powder. Serve warm in shallow bowls, allowing the steam to carry the aromatic bouquet to the guest.

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Nutrition FactsPer serving
2663.00
Calories
21.38g
Protein
108.77g
Carbs
102.91g
Fat
20.83g
Fiber
34.42g
Sugar
Frequently Asked QuestionsHelpful recipe answers

What can I use instead of feni if I can’t find it?

A dry white wine or a splash of brandy works well. Keep the amount small—about a tablespoon—to avoid overpowering the kheer’s delicate flavor.

How do I keep the kheer from curdling when I add cold ghee?

Add the cold ghee at the very end, after the kheer has simmered. Stir gently so the ghee coats the vermicelli without breaking the milk.

Can I reduce the sugar without losing sweetness?

Yes, cut the sugar by 20–30% and add a pinch of cardamom[1][2] or a drizzle of honey. The spices will fill the gap and keep the kheer pleasantly sweet.
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