Pineapple Kesari

Pineapple Kesari is a sweet dish from India that is made with semolina, sugar, ghee, and pineapple. It is often served as a dessert or snack. The dish is flavorful and aromatic, with a soft and fluffy texture. It is a perfect sweet treat for any occasion.

The origins of Pineapple Kesari are unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The dish is believed to have been created by a temple cook who was looking for a way to use up leftover semolina. The cook added pineapple, sugar, and ghee to the semolina and created a sweet dish that was both delicious and nutritious. Pineapple Kesari quickly became popular in Tamil Nadu and is now a staple of South Indian cuisine.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup grated pineapple
• 1/2 cup ghee
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1/4 teaspoon green cardamom powder
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Dry roast semolina in a heavy bottom pan, on medium heat, for 2-3 minutes or until aromatic.
2. Add ghee and continue roasting for another minute.
3. Add water and sugar and mix well.
4. Cover and simmer until all the water has evaporated.
5. Add grated pineapple and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pineapple has softened.
6. Add saffron and cardamom powder and mix well.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts (optional).
8. Serve hot or warm.

Why It Works

• The combination of semolina, sugar, ghee, and pineapple creates a flavorful and aromatic dish.
• The semolina is roasted in ghee, which gives it a nutty flavor.
• The pineapple adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
• The dish is simmered until all the water has evaporated, which gives it a soft and fluffy texture.