By Akshara
October 16, 2026
Make Karwa Chauth 2026 extra special with this vibrant pistachio kheer, ideal for both pre-dawn Sargi meals or the evening moon-sighting fast-break feast. Slow-simmered in full-fat milk and enriched with real pistachio paste and fragrant cardamom, this royal green pudding provides long-lasting energy and comforting sweetness. Serve chilled, garnished with edible rose petals and slivered nuts.
4 cups full-fat milk  1/2 cup raw pistachios (blanched, peeled, and ground into a paste)  1/4 cup basmati rice, soaked for 20 minutes and coarsely crushed  1/3 cup sugar or condensed milk  1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder  A few strands of saffron  1 tablespoon slivered pistachios and dried rose petals for garnish
Bring the full-fat milk to a boil in a heavy-bottomed pot, add the coarsely crushed basmati rice, and simmer on low heat for fifteen minutes until the rice softens and the milk thickens.
Stir the fresh pistachio paste and saffron strands into the simmering milk, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and to distribute the vibrant colour evenly.
Add the sugar or condensed milk along with the cardamom powder, cooking on low heat for another five to seven minutes until the kheer reaches a rich, creamy consistency.
Remove from heat, allow to cool, and refrigerate before garnishing with slivered pistachios and dried rose petals for a royal festive dessert.