Temple Style Kheer / Payasam

User profile image
Gayatri (@rene121)

**Temple style kheer, also known as kadum madura payasam or ghee payasam, is a traditional Indian dessert served as prasadam in temples. Made with rice, jaggery, ghee, and roasted coconut pieces, this sweet treat is perfect for special occasions like Vishu and Navaratri. It has an extra sweetness and flavor...

Temple Style Kheer / Payasam recipe
Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
50min
Total Time
1hr

Ingredients

5 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

Main Ingredients

  • raw rice
    raw rice
    100g
  • ghee
    ghee
    1/4cup
  • coconut pieces
    coconut pieces
    1/4cup
  • cardamom powder
    cardamom powder
    1/2tsp

For Jaggery Syrup

  • jaggery
    jaggery
    300g
  • water
    water
    1/2cup

How to make Temple Style Kheer / Payasam

Cooking the Rice

  1. Step 1

    Wash the rice and add it to a thick-bottomed vessel.

  2. Step 2

    Add 3 cups of water and boil until the rice is well-cooked.

Preparing Jaggery Syrup

  1. Step 1

    Add jaggery and water to a pan and boil until the jaggery is completely melted.

  2. Step 2

    Once cooled, strain the jaggery syrup.

Combining Ingredients

  1. Step 1

    Add the jaggery syrup to the cooked rice and boil until it reduces to half.

  2. Step 2

    In a separate pan, heat ghee and fry coconut pieces until they turn light brown.

  3. Step 3

    Add the fried coconut pieces and ghee to the rice and jaggery mixture.

  4. Step 4

    Mix in the cardamom powder thoroughly.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

348.0kcal (17.4%)

Protein

5.1g (10.2%)

Carbs

67.0g (24.36%)

Sugars

54.0g (100%)

Healthy Fat

4.8g

Unhealthy Fat

7.2g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Use a thick-bottomed vessel to prevent the rice from sticking.

  2. Ensure the jaggery syrup is completely cooled before straining to remove impurities. Use organic jaggery.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Temple Style Kheer without jaggery?

    If you want to make Temple Style Kheer without jaggery, you can substitute it with brown sugar or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still provide a sweet taste. Adjust the quantity according to your sweetness preference.

  2. Can I store leftover Temple Style Kheer, and how long does it last?

    Yes, you can store leftover Temple Style Kheer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week. Since this recipe does not contain milk, it has a longer shelf life compared to traditional payasam.

  3. What are some good pairings for Temple Style Kheer?

    Temple Style Kheer pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like Pongal or any South Indian meal. It can also be enjoyed as a standalone dessert after a festive meal during occasions like Vishu or Navaratri.

  4. Is Temple Style Kheer suitable for vegan diets?

    Temple Style Kheer can be made vegan by substituting ghee with coconut oil or any other plant-based oil. This way, you can enjoy this traditional dessert while adhering to a vegan diet.

  5. What is the cooking process for making Temple Style Kheer?

    To make Temple Style Kheer, start by washing the raw rice and cooking it in a thick-bottomed vessel with water until well-cooked. Meanwhile, melt jaggery in water and strain the syrup. Combine the jaggery syrup with the cooked rice and reduce it. Finally, fry coconut pieces in ghee and mix everything together with cardamom powder for a delicious dessert.

Loading reviews...

rene121's profile picture

Gayatri

(@rene121)

Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia