Puerto Rican Vegan Sheer Khurma: A Fusion of Flavors
In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there lies a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that can be beautifully intertwined with other global culinary delights. For this recipe, we’re taking the classic Indian dessert, Sheer Khurma, and giving it a vibrant Puerto Rican vegan twist. This fusion is not only a celebration of cultural exchange but also a testament to the versatility and creativity of vegan cooking.
What is Sheer Khurma?
Sheer Khurma, or cardamom vermicelli pudding, is a traditional Indian dessert often served during special occasions. It’s a creamy, sweet, and aromatic treat that has captured the hearts of many. By incorporating Puerto Rican flavors, we’re adding a unique spin that will make this dessert stand out.
Ingredients
- 800ml full cream non-dairy milk (such as coconut milk or almond milk)
- 300ml thickened non-dairy cream (like coconut cream)
- 1 can (395ml) non-dairy condensed milk
- ½ cup caster sugar
- 2 tsp vegan ghee or coconut oil
- ¾ cup (50g) vermicelli noodles
- 10 cardamom pods, slightly cracked open
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 1 tsp kewra water or rose water (optional)
- 1 tbsp toasted slivered almonds
- Dried rose petals, to serve
- A pinch of Puerto Rican touch: Add a few strands of saffron for an extra layer of flavor and color, if available.
Instructions
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Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine the non-dairy milk, non-dairy cream, non-dairy condensed milk, cinnamon, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
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Toast the Vermicelli: In a separate pan, heat the vegan ghee or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the vermicelli noodles and cardamom pods. Toast the noodles until they turn a dark golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. This step is crucial for bringing out the aromatic flavors.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the toasted vermicelli and cardamom seeds into the milk mixture. Stir for about 5-10 minutes until the pudding starts to slightly thicken. If using kewra water or rose water, add it at this stage.
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Chill and Serve: Turn off the heat and let the pudding cool slightly. Pour it into decorative glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, sprinkle toasted slivered almonds and dried rose petals on top.
The Puerto Rican Touch
While Sheer Khurma is inherently sweet and does not require the addition of Sazón, Adobo, or Sofrito, the use of saffron can add a subtle yet elegant flavor profile reminiscent of some Puerto Rican desserts. The saffron, with its earthy and slightly sweet notes, complements the cardamom and cinnamon beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of global flavors.
Cultural Significance
This vegan Sheer Khurma is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of cultural fusion and the adaptability of traditional recipes. By using non-dairy ingredients, we’re making this dessert accessible to everyone, while maintaining the rich flavors and aromas that make it so beloved.
In Puerto Rican cuisine, desserts often reflect the island’s diverse heritage, blending indigenous, Spanish, African, and other influences. This vegan Sheer Khurma embodies this spirit of fusion, bringing together the aromatic spices of India with the warm, inviting flavors of Puerto Rico.
Enjoy Your Creation
As you take your first spoonful of this Puerto Rican Vegan Sheer Khurma, you’ll be transported to a world of creamy textures and aromatic flavors. This dessert is a perfect example of how traditional recipes can be creatively reimagined to suit modern tastes and dietary preferences, all while honoring the cultural heritage that makes them special. So go ahead, indulge in this delightful fusion, and let the flavors tell their story.
- Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials