Dairy-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Dairy-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh, a plant-based twist on the classic Indian rice pudding. Made with aromatic Gobindobhog rice and luscious full-fat coconut milk, this dessert is sweetened naturally with jaggery for a wholesome, caramel-like flavor. Infused with the warm and fragrant notes of crushed cardamom and a hint of earthy bay leaf, this vegan payesh is a delectable harmony of traditional flavors without any dairy. Perfectly garnished with golden roasted cashews and plump raisins, this Bengali delicacy is a celebration of texture and taste. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s an irresistible gluten-free treat for festive occasions or a comforting dessert for any day.

Nutriscore Rating: 51/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 0.5 cups Gobindobhog rice (or any short-grain aromatic rice)
• 2 cups Coconut milk (full-fat)
• 1 cup Water
• 0.5 cups Jaggery (grated or powdered)
• 4 whole Cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
• 1 whole Bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons Cashews (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the Gobindobhog rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the coconut milk and water. Add the bay leaf and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 3

Once the mixture starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the washed rice. Stir well to distribute evenly.

Step 4

Cook the rice on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it is fully cooked and starts to break down slightly. This should take about 20-25 minutes.

Step 5

After the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf. Add the crushed cardamom pods and jaggery. Stir the mixture constantly until the jaggery dissolves completely.

Step 6

Allow the payesh to simmer for another 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 7

If using, roast the cashews and raisins in a small pan with a bit of oil or on dry heat until golden and fragrant.

Step 8

Remove the payesh from heat and garnish with roasted cashews and raisins (if desired).

Step 9

Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy your dairy-free Bengali payesh!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(984.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1876.1

Total Fat 122.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 103.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 126.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 199.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.1g	0%
Total Sugars 150.9g
Protein 17.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 236.4mg	0%
Iron 31.1mg	0%
Potassium 2913.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.9%

Protein: 3.5%

Carbs: 40.6%