Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 4 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup condensed milk
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, and pistachios)
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1 teaspoon raisins

Source: www.freepik.com/chandlervid85
Instructions:
- Roast the Oats: Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a pan and roast the oats until they turn golden and aromatic. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- Prepare the Saffron Milk (Optional): Warm a tablespoon of milk and soak the saffron strands in it. Set it aside.
- Cook the Oats: In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and chopped nuts. Sauté until the nuts turn golden. Add the roasted oats and sauté for another couple of minutes.
- Add Milk: Pour in the milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the oats to cook in the milk over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Sweeten the Payasam: Once the oats are cooked and the mixture thickens (about 15-20 minutes), add sugar and condensed milk. Mix well and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Flavor with Cardamom: Stir in the cardamom powder for a delightful aroma and flavor. If you’re using saffron, add the saffron milk at this stage for a beautiful color and fragrance.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish your oats payasam with raisins and more chopped nuts. Serve it warm or chilled, as you prefer.
This oats payasam is a healthier twist on the classic Indian dessert, providing a delicious way to enjoy the goodness of oats. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings while keeping your health in mind. Enjoy!