Gasagase Payasa / Gasagasala Payasam / Poppy Seeds Kheer

Recipe Source: Pushpa Gandlur

I am participating in the second group of blogging marathon # 5 that starts today and have chosen the theme of Indian sweets. Kheers / puddings and laddus are the qualifying choices this time. That means you are going to see those kinds of sweets this week here. J
For the first day, I have chosen a delectable kheer from Karnataka. The delightful combo of poppy seed - coconut mixture in a sweetened milk base is truly a treat to your taste buds. And so rightly chosen for festive occasions or to entice guests by Kannadigas. There are several variations in the preparation of this kheer. Fresh / dried coconut can be used, jaggery or sugar can be the sweetener and the ingredients may be soaked or toasted depending upon one's preference. My mother prepares it in a different way and today's version is the courtesy of a SIL, who happens to be a Kannadiga.
And I want to mention that a little quantity of poppy seeds makes a large quantity of kheer and as many claim, you are not going to fall asleep after drinking a cup of kheer. At least I don't. J

Ingredients: (3 servings)
1 Tbsp poppy seeds / gasagase
1 Tbsp rice
6 almonds
2 Tbsp grated, dry coconut
1/2 tsp cardamom powder
4 Tbsp sugar
1.5 cup water
1 cup milk (boiled and cooled)

Preparation:
Soak almonds, rice, poppy seeds and coconut in a little water for a couple of hours. Or soak them in hot water for 30 minutes.

Method:
* Grind the soaked ingredients in a blender to fine paste, adding water if needed.
* Add the ground paste and water to a pan (non stick preferably) and keep cooking until the raw smell disappears. Keep stirring in between.  Add the cardamom powder and sugar. Stir until the sugar melts and turn off the stove.
* Remove the pan from heat and slowly stir in the milk.
* This kheer can be either served warm or cold.

Check out the following marathoners who are participating in BM#5.
Curry in a hurry under 30 min: Priya Suresh, Srivalli, Usha
Seven Days of Colorful Dishes Kid's Special: Vardhini
Seven Days of Indian Sweets: Harini,  Veena & Me
Seven Days of Regional Specials: Aarthi, Kalyani, Pavani, Shylaja
Summer Coolers: PJ,  Vaishali
Under 15 mins Quick Breakfast: Sushma Pinjala

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