Sheer Khurma (Vermicelli and Date Milk Pudding)

Method

1. 1

   Lightly crush the cardamom pods to split them, and have the vermicelli, dates, sugar and nuts measured out.

2. 2

   Melt the ghee in the pot over medium heat; add the vermicelli and cardamom and toast, stirring constantly, until the strands turn a nutty golden brown.

   💡 Keep stirring — vermicelli goes from golden to burnt in the time it takes to look away.

3. 3

   Pour in the milk and add the sliced dates; bring to a gentle simmer.

4. 4

   Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vermicelli is fully soft and the milk has thickened slightly, about 20 minutes.

   💡 The dates should half-melt, sweetening the milk from inside.

5. 5

   Stir in the sugar until dissolved, then fold in the pistachios and almonds, saving a pinch of each for garnish.

6. 6

   Ladle into bowls, scatter the reserved nuts on top, and serve warm — or refrigerate and serve chilled by afternoon, as many households do.