Diwali Sweets

Pineapple kesari

The sweet and tangy taste of pineapple perfectly complements the rich and flavorful spices, making pineapple kesari a delightful treat for the taste buds.

Today, we're going to explore the delicious and unique recipe for pineapple kesari. This delightful Indian dessert is made with semolina, sugar, and, of course, juicy pineapple pieces. The combination of pineapple and the traditional kesari ingredients creates a sweet and fragrant dish that is perfect for any occasion. Follow along as we walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering treat.

What Is Pineapple Kesari?

Pineapple kesari is a classic Indian dessert made with a combination of semolina, juicy pineapple pieces, and a unique blend of Indian spices and seasoning. This delectable dish is infused with the flavor of saffron, cardamom, and ghee, creating a succulent and aromatic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy taste of pineapple perfectly complements the rich and flavorful spices, making pineapple kesari a delightful treat for the taste buds.

Why You'll Love Pineapple Kesari?

Delicious and Soft Texture: The pineapple kesari has a delicate and soft texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfectly cooked semolina and the addition of sweet and tangy pineapple pieces.
Rich in Antioxidants: Pineapple is rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes overall health.
Good Source of Fiber: Semolina, the main ingredient in pineapple kesari, is a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Natural Sweetness: The natural sweetness of pineapple adds a delightful flavor without the need for excessive sugar, making this dessert a healthier option for those with a sweet tooth.
Saffron for Added Health Benefits: The addition of saffron not only enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish but also offers various health benefits, such as promoting good digestion and improving mood.
Nutrient-Rich: With the inclusion of cashews and raisins, this dessert provides additional nutrients and a satisfying crunch, making it a well-rounded and delightful treat.

Ingredients for Pineapple Kesari

Semolina/ Rava: This main ingredient gives the dish its texture and body, creating a hearty and satisfying dessert.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dish and balances out the flavors of the pineapple and other ingredients.
Pineapple pieces: Infuses the dish with a deliciously tropical and fruity flavor, adding a refreshing twist to the traditional kesari.
Saffron: Contributes a subtle and aromatic flavor, as well as a beautiful golden hue to the pineapple kesari.
Ghee: Enhances the richness and depth of flavor in the dish, adding a delightful nutty aroma and taste.
Cashew and Raisins: These ingredients provide a satisfying crunch and irresistible sweetness, complementing the texture and flavor of the pineapple kesari.

How To Make Pineapple Kesari?

Start by soaking saffron in hot milk and set it aside for further use.
Then, heat 2 tsp of ghee in a pan over low heat, fry chopped cashews until browned, and add raisins.
After transferring them to a plate, fry the rava in the same pan until it becomes aromatic and lightly browned.
Meanwhile, heat a small saucepan with 1&1/2 cups of water and add the chopped pineapples once it starts to boil. Cook until the pineapples become slightly soft.
Add the boiling pineapple water to the rava and stir continuously, covering and cooking for 3 to 4 mins over low heat until the rava is fully cooked.
It's important to continuously stir to avoid forming lumps and breaking down any that form.
Furthermore, add the saffron milk and mix well, then gradually add sugar. Stir continuously as the mixture starts to loosen.
Next, add 2 tbsp of ghee and continue stirring until the kesari separates from the pan.
Finally, add the fried cashews and raisins, sprinkle the cardamom powder, mix well, and switch off the heat.

These steps are crucial in ensuring that the pineapple kesari turns out flavorful and perfectly cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serving with: Pineapple kesari is best served with a side of hot, steaming sambar or coconut chutney, which complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish.
Pair with: You can also pair pineapple kesari with a savory vegetable curry like potato masala or mixed vegetable curry for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Garnish with: For an added touch, garnish the pineapple kesari with a few strands of saffron and some extra pineapple pieces to enhance the presentation and flavors.
Accompany with: To round out the meal, serve the pineapple kesari with some crispy papad or crunchy fried potatoes to add a contrasting texture to the dish.
Serve as dessert: Alternatively, you can also serve pineapple kesari as a delightful dessert, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a sweet ending to your meal.
Enjoy with tea: Pineapple kesari also makes a delightful evening snack when paired with a cup of hot chai or aromatic coffee, perfect for enjoying a cozy evening at home.

Tips for Making Pineapple Kesari

Furthermore, I would like to give some suggestions for making pineapple kesari. -

First of all, fry rava in low heat until it is roasted. It will take 4 to 5 mins. Secondly, keep stirring after adding boiling water to rava, so that there won’t be any lumps formed. Finally, I have used saffron for color, however, you can also use yellow food color instead of saffron. But adding of saffron gives some rich taste. Add this food color when the water is boiling with pineapple pieces.
Once pineapple kesari cools it will thicken. So if you want to cut into pieces, then spread the kesari in the ghee greased plate evenly. When it cools completely, then cut them into square pieces.
Pineapple Kesari stays good at room temperature for one day. You can also keep it in the refrigerator for nearly 2 days. The second day it tastes even better with a nice pineapple flavor. You can also add some saffron (soaked in 2 tbsp of hot milk) instead of food color.

Variations for Pineapple Kesari

Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits such as mango, banana, or apple to add a unique twist to the traditional pineapple kesari.
Nutty Additions: In addition to cashews and raisins, try adding almonds, pistachios, or even walnuts for a different nutty flavor and texture.
Coconut Flakes: For a tropical flavor, consider adding shredded coconut to the kesari mixture for a delightful coconut-pineapple combination.
Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth and depth to the kesari.
Flavored Syrups: Instead of sugar, try using flavored syrups like rose or vanilla for a different sweetness and aroma.
Milk Alternatives: For a dairy-free option, substitute the hot milk with coconut milk or almond milk to make the pineapple kesari suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Store Pineapple Kesari

Storing Pineapple Kesari: Once the pineapple kesari has cooled down to room temperature, store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Proper Storage of Key Ingredients: It is important to store the key ingredients such as pineapple pieces, cashews, and raisins in sealed containers in a cool, dry place to prevent them from spoiling.
Refrigeration: If you anticipate storing the pineapple kesari for a longer period, consider refrigerating it to extend its shelf life.
Avoid Moisture: Keep the pineapple kesari away from moisture to prevent it from becoming soggy. Ensure the container is tightly sealed and free from any condensation.
Separate Storage: Store the pineapple kesari separately from any other strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily.
Best Consumed Fresh: While pineapple kesari can be stored, it is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it within a few days for the best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can definitely use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple for this pineapple kesari recipe. Just make sure to drain the excess liquid from the canned pineapple before using it in the recipe.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet kesari, start by reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup and taste as you go until you reach your desired sweetness.

How can I make the kesari more aromatic?

To enhance the aroma of the pineapple kesari, you can toast the semolina/rava for an extra minute or two until it becomes fragrant. This will add a lovely nutty flavor and aroma to the dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this pineapple kesari recipe vegan by using plant-based milk instead of regular milk and replacing ghee with a vegan butter or coconut oil. The result will still be delicious!

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits to the kesari?

Certainly! Feel free to customize the pineapple kesari by adding your favorite nuts such as almonds, pistachios, or even shredded coconut. You can also include dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added texture and flavor.

How do I prevent lumps from forming in the kesari?

To prevent lumps from forming in the kesari, make sure to gradually add the boiling water while continuously stirring the rava. If any lumps do form, simply break them down with a spoon during the cooking process.

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