Nabanna: Festive Bengali Rice Pudding with Jaggery & Coconut
25 minutes
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About Nabanna: Festive Bengali Rice Pudding with Jaggery & Coconut
Celebrate Makar Sankranti with this authentic Nabanna recipe, a traditional Bengali sweet pudding. Made with freshly harvested rice and fragrant palm jaggery, it embodies the spirit of the new harvest festival. This creamy, comforting dessert is a delightful tribute to the season's bounty, enhanced with warming spices and crunchy nuts.The recipe reflects the traditional practice of using new rice during Makar Sankranti, when people celebrate by taking a holy dip in the Ganga River and attending the vibrant Maag Mela. My version captures the essence of this festive occasion, bringing a taste of Bengal to your table.This Nabanna is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends during this joyous celebration. The combination of sweet jaggery, creamy milk, and aromatic spices creates an unforgettable taste of the harvest.
Recipe Time & More
Prep10 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total25 minutes
Ingredients
Sweetener & Spices
- 1/2 cup Jaggery fresh palm jaggery preferred; or use an equal amount of pitted dates
- 1/2 tsp Cardamom Powder
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Nuts cashews, chopped; such as almonds, mixed, pistachios
- 1/2 cup Coconut freshly grated
- 2-3 leaves Bay Leaves
- 2 tbsp Ghee for richness, optional
Instructions
Prepare the Rice
- Combine milk and bay leaves in a heavy-bottomed pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Add the soaked rice and stir continuously. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the rice is cooked and the milk has reduced to a creamy consistency, about 20-25 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Add Flavor & Sweetness
- Stir in the chopped nuts, grated coconut, and cardamom powder. Remove from heat. Stir in the jaggery (or dates) until dissolved and well combined. If using dates, you may need to mash them slightly before adding.
Finishing Touches
- If desired, stir in 2 tablespoons of ghee or butter for added richness. Let the Nabanna cool to room temperature before serving. Garnish with extra chopped nuts and coconut, if desired.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Perfect Nabanna
- Use freshly harvested rice for the best flavor and texture. Soaking the rice overnight ensures it cooks evenly.
- Adjust the amount of jaggery or dates according to your sweetness preference. Taste and add more if needed.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked Nabanna before adding the nuts and coconut.
- Serve the Nabanna warm or chilled. It tastes delicious either way!
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 67kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.8gFiber: 1g
7 Comments
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Absolutely delicious! Thanks for sharing.
So delicious! Excited to make it.
Wow, this looks fantastic!
This looks so inviting! I’m eager to try it.
This is tempting
Adding Bay leave to kheer is quite different.
Absolutely delicious! Thanks for sharing.