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Here's a step-by-step process to making this luscious and aromatic dessert, Pineapple Kesari: Begin by cutting 250 gms of fresh pineapple into small pieces and then set it aside.
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The fresh pineapple adds a nice juicy tang to this dish, and it perfectly complements the heavy, smooth semolina.
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In a pan, heat 2 Tbsps of ghee over low flame. After heating the ghee, add 1 cup (200 gms) semolina and start roasting it.
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Stir the semolina constantly so that it roasts evenly and does not get burnt.
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Heat it for around 5-7 minutes over a low flame or until it becomes golden brown, emitting the aroma of roasted nuts.
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Once the semolina roasts, transfer it to a plate and keep it ready for later use.
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In the same pan, add 1.5 cups of water and 1 cup of sugar.
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Stir well so that sugar melts entirely in water.
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Bring it to a gentle boil on medium flame.
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Add chopped pineapple pieces to the syrup once it starts boiling. Let the pineapple get cooked in the syrup mixture for nearly 5-7 minutes on a medium flame till the fruit softens and infuses into the syrup.
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Gradually add the roasted semolina to the pineapple sugar syrup mixture and stir it continuously so that it does not form lumps.
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Stir well so that there will be no improper lumpiness and cook on low flame till the semolina absorbs all liquids and becomes soft and thick, about 5-6 minutes.
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Add a quarter Tsp of cardamom powder for a warm spicy fragrance and a pinch of saffron strands soaked in 1 Tbsp of warm milk once the mixture has thickened.
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Mix all the spices well and ensure they are evenly distributed.
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But this time, the Kesari cooks for 2-3 more minutes until the flavours are well melded. Now that it is ready, the flame must be turned off.
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It should be the texture of smooth puddings with an occasional tartness from the bites of the pineapple pieces.
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To finish, add 2 Tbsps of fried cashew nuts and the raisins fried in ghee. The addition of pine nuts provides a pleasing crunch, while the raisins release sweetness.
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Pineapple Kesari is now ready to be served.
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This recipe of Pineapple Kesari blends the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the rich texture of semolina, creating a fragrant and indulgent South Indian dessert.