Sugar-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of **Sugar-Free Traditional Bengali Payesh**, a creamy and aromatic dessert crafted with fragrant Gobindobhog rice and naturally sweetened with luscious pitted dates. This guilt-free version of the classic Bengali festive dish uses full-fat milk simmered to perfection with green cardamom pods and a bay leaf, ensuring a rich and authentic flavor. The natural sweetness of dates not only eliminates the need for sugar but also adds a delightful caramel undertone. Optional garnishes like chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins lend a subtle crunch and added indulgence. Perfect for festive occasions or quiet family gatherings, this traditional yet health-conscious dessert is a must-try for those seeking a refined, sugar-free treat. Serve it warm or chilled and savor the classic taste of Bengal with every spoonful.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 50 grams Gobindobhog rice (or any fragrant short-grain rice)
• 1 liter Full-fat milk
• 150 grams Pitted dates (soft and finely chopped)
• 4 pieces Green cardamom pods
• 1 piece Bay leaf
• 10 pieces Cashews (optional, chopped)
• 10 pieces Almonds (optional, chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Wash the Gobindobhog rice in water thoroughly and set it aside to drain for 10 minutes.

Step 2

In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3

Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.

Step 4

Add the drained rice to the simmering milk along with the bay leaf and green cardamom pods.

Step 5

Continue cooking on low heat while stirring occasionally, ensuring the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 6

When the rice is about 75% cooked, add the finely chopped dates to the mixture. Stir well to ensure they evenly dissolve into the milk and naturally sweeten the payesh.

Step 7

Let the mixture continue to simmer until the rice is fully cooked, the milk has reduced, and the payesh has reached a creamy consistency. Stir more frequently as the mixture thickens.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaf and green cardamom pods. Add the chopped cashews, almonds, and raisins if using, and mix well.

Step 9

Turn off the heat and let the payesh cool down to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.

Step 10

Serve the sugar-free Bengali payesh warm or chilled as a traditional dessert for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1273.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1296.0

Total Fat 44.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 20.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Cholesterol 123.8mg	0%
Sodium 400.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 195.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.4g	0%
Total Sugars 161.3g
Protein 42.9g	0%

Vitamin D 453.8IU	0%
Calcium 1425.0mg	0%
Iron 3.2mg	0%
Potassium 2915.0mg	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: 29.3%

Protein: 12.7%

Carbs: 58.0%