Vermicelli Payasam (Pudding) with Almond Paste and Chia seeds

Back home most festivals and auspicious days are celebrated with something sweet. Depending on the festival the sweet is made on the auspicious day itself or prepared ahead of time. Living away from the atmosphere of festivals I hardly ever get anything done before the day. It was no different for this year's Tamil New Year. In the evening made this quick and easy payasam.

Chia seeds are the thing now at least for me. I also hear that it has a lot of health benefits. I know I know that is the way with most fad foods but it doesn't hurt that it tastes good. Once it is soaked in liquid and swells up a little the texture is something that I like. So no surprise here that I added them to payasam and of course it did taste good. I add almonds to the payasam as it adds some texture and a rich taste without reducing the milk for a long time.

Vermicelli Payasam (Pudding) with Almond Paste and Chia Seeds
Preparation Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:20-25 minutes
Ingredients

1. 1/4 cup of vermicelli (or as required - see note:)
2. 4 cups of milk
3. 2 tbsp of almonds soaked in a bit of milk
4. 1/4 cup of broken cashews and raisins
5. 2-3 tbsp of chia seeds
6. 1/4 - 1/2 cup of sugar
7. 2 cardamoms
   
8. 2 tsp ghee

Method

1. In a heavy bottomed pan heat the milk occasionally stirring to avoid sticking to the bottom.
2. If you are using vermicelli that is not roasted, dry roast them in a pan till they start to brown a bit. Set aside.
3. When the milk comes to a boil add in the vermicelli while stirring.
4. Pound the cardamoms and add to the boiling milk.
5. Blend the almonds to a smooth paste and add to the boiling milk after it has boiled for about 20 minutes and the vermicelli is cooked.
6. In a small sauce pan, heat the ghee and roast the cashews till brown and the raisins till they swell up.
7. Turn of the heat when the desired consistency for the milk has reached.
8. Add in the chia seeds and let sit for about 10-20 minutes and then serve.
9. Note: Add more vermicelli if you want a thick pudding. I like it a little bit milky so the amount specified.

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