Pineapple Sheera

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare Aromatics and Nuts

   • In a small bowl, soak the saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Set aside.
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan (kadai) over medium heat.
   • Add the cashews and fry for 1-2 minutes until they turn light golden. Add the raisins and fry for another 30 seconds until they plump up.
   • Remove the fried nuts and raisins with a slotted spoon and set them aside for later.
2. 2

   Roast the Semolina (Rava)

   • In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and let it melt.
   • Add the rava (semolina) to the ghee. Reduce the heat to low-medium.
   • Roast the rava, stirring continuously, for about 8-10 minutes. It should become fragrant and change to a very light cream color. Do not let it brown. This step is crucial for a non-sticky texture.
3. 3

   Prepare the Pineapple Syrup

   • While the rava is roasting, combine the 3 cups of water, sugar, chopped pineapple, and a pinch of salt in a separate saucepan.
   • Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the pineapple is slightly tender.
   • Ensure the syrup remains very hot.
4. 4

   Combine and Cook the Sheera

   • Turn the heat under the roasted rava to the lowest setting.
   • Carefully and slowly pour the hot pineapple syrup into the rava. Be cautious as the mixture will splutter violently.
   • Stir continuously and vigorously to prevent any lumps from forming. The rava will quickly absorb the liquid.
   • Once everything is well combined, cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the rava is fully cooked and soft.
5. 5

   Finish and Serve

   • Turn off the heat. Uncover the pan and fluff the sheera with a fork.
   • Add the cardamom powder, the soaked saffron water, and most of the fried cashews and raisins (reserve some for garnish).
   • Gently mix everything together until well incorporated.
   • Cover the pan again and let the sheera rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
   • Serve warm, garnished with the reserved fried nuts.