Rava Kesari Recipe with Saffron – A Delicious South Indian Dessert

Rava Kesari is a beloved South Indian dessert made from semolina, sugar, ghee, nuts, and raisins. This sweet treat is quick to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it's a festival, family celebration, or a simple weekend indulgence.

The Key Ingredient: Saffron

Traditionally, Rava Kesari gets its signature golden-orange hue from artificial coloring. However, a more flavorful and natural option is to use saffron. Saffron not only imparts a beautiful color but also adds a rich depth of flavor and aroma that elevates this simple dessert.

At Dorreen Saffron, we source high-quality saffron that’s ideal for dishes like Rava Kesari. The saffron's vivid color and distinctive taste help transform this classic dish into something truly special. By soaking saffron strands in warm water or milk before adding them to your recipe, you can release the full potential of this spice.

How to Prepare Rava Kesari

1. Fry the nuts and raisins: Begin by heating ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot. Fry cashew nuts until golden and raisins until plump. Set aside.
2. Roast the semolina: In the same pot, add semolina (rava) and roast it in ghee on low to medium heat until aromatic but not browned.
3. Add hot water: As the semolina roasts, boil water in a separate pot. Pour the hot water slowly into the roasted semolina, stirring consistently to avoid lumps.
4. Infuse with saffron: Soak a few strands of saffron in hot water, then add the saffron-infused liquid to the mixture. This will bring a natural golden color and subtle flavor to your dessert.
5. Sweeten the dish: Stir in sugar, cardamom powder, and more ghee for a rich, fluffy texture. Add the fried nuts and raisins for added crunch.

Pro Tips

• Roasting: Roast the semolina thoroughly for a non-sticky, fluffy kesari.
• Saffron infusion: Always soak saffron in hot water or milk for a few minutes to extract its full flavor and color.
• Water consistency: Use 2.5 cups of water for every cup of semolina for the perfect texture.

Why Saffron Makes a Difference

Using saffron, especially high-quality saffron, can elevate even the simplest dishes. In Rava Kesari, saffron not only gives the dessert a beautiful golden hue but also adds a warm, floral flavor that makes the dish stand out. While traditional recipes may use artificial coloring, saffron offers both beauty and natural goodness.

If you’re looking to explore authentic flavors, consider using pure saffron to bring out the best in your Rava Kesari. It’s the perfect touch for festive occasions or simply when you want to make a classic dish shine.

Final Thoughts

Rava Kesari is a simple yet indulgent dessert that becomes even more delightful with the addition of saffron. For those who appreciate authentic flavors, saffron is the key to transforming this traditional dish into something extraordinary. Whether you're making it for a festival or a weekend breakfast, saffron ensures every bite is full of rich flavor and vibrant color.