Payasam, also known as Kheer, is an Indian/Sri Lankan sweet dish, that can be described as a type of "wet pudding". It's comfort food for when you're sick and can also be had as a dessert dish.
Whether you're sick, you just want something light and sweet, or you're at the temple, payasam is always there!
This dish is something that everybody in my house loves. As you mature in age you tend to add more toppings, but I still choose to have plain payasam every day.
IDDSI-Friendly Recipe: Level 5 Minced + Moist
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water (boiling)
- 1/2 cup of milk of choice
- 2/3 tbsp of sugar or sweetener
- 1tsp of vanilla essences
Method:
- Preheat a pan
- Warm the sago pearls ( to avoid sticking to each other)
- Boil water
- When boiling the water, slowly add the sago pearls.
- When the pearls are cooked it'll appear colorless.
- Add sugar or artificial sweeteners (for diabetic patients) and your choice of milk.
- Based on the desired thickness take it off the stove and serve. If you would prefer a pudding consistency keep it on for longer, if you would like it to be runny take it off sooner.
You can add toppings of your choice, such as various nuts, sultanas, and fruit.,
*if adding toppings this dish will may no longer be minced moist*
IDDSI TESTING: LEVEL 5 IDDSI-Friendly Recipe: Minced + Moist
To ensure the payasam is of a minced and moist consistency, ensure the sago has been heated up so it does not stick together and is squishy - you can check this by pushing it with a fork in the pan and ensuring it bounces. Also, leave the payasam on the stove for about 2-3 minutes so it stays a minced texture.
A Level 5 consistency can be eaten using a spoon and cannot be drunk from a cup as it doesn't flow easily.
IDDSI FORK PRESSURE TEST
When a fork is pressed on the surface of the food, the prongs of a fork can make a clear pattern on the surface, and/or the food retains the indentation from the fork.
Payasam passed the Fork Pressure test as there is an indentation of the fork on the food.
IDDSI FORK DRIP TEST
Liquid does not dollop, or drip continuously through the fork prongs. Allowed to have a small amount flow through.
The pudding passes the Fork Drip test as only a small amount drips through the prongs.
IDDSI SPOON TILT TEST
Food holds its shape on the spoon and falls off fairly easily if the spoon is tilted or lightly flicked. Thin film may be left on the spoon.
Payasam passes the Spoon Tilt as it holds its shape on the spoon and falls off easily when tilted.
IDDSI SPOON TILT TEST: 4 HOURS LATER