Payesh is a typical Bengali rice pudding that entices with its creamy texture and delicate aroma; be ready to enjoy its rich and comforting flavors. Bengali households commonly eat this popular dessert for special occasions, festivals, and celebratory gatherings. It is a mainstay in Bengali cuisine.
Payesh is made by slowly simmering fragrant basmati rice in a milk-water mixture until it is very soft and absorbs all the creamy deliciousness of the liquid. The starch released by the cooked rice thickens the sauce and gives it a velvety, smooth texture.
After the rice is cooked, add sugar to taste and a generous sprinkle of aromatic spices like nutmeg and cardamom to produce a comfortable and warm pudding.
To make Payesh even better, you can add some nuts like almonds, cashews, or pistachios and some dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates. These will give it a wonderful chewiness and sweetness, and the nuts will enhance the flavor.
After that, it’s only a matter of gently simmering the pudding until it thickens and becomes creamyโjust right for ladling into bowls and enjoying warm or cold, whatever you choose.
Crushed almonds or saffron-infused milk are common garnishes for payesh, elevating this traditional Bengali delicacy to a more refined level.
Payesh Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup basmati rice washed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar adjust to taste
- 4-5 green cardamom pods crushed
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
- Saffron strands for garnish optional
- Rose petals for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Wash basmati rice under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes to soften it.
Step 2: Cook the Rice Pudding
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 4 cups of whole milk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk. Stir well to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer in the milk, stirring occasionally, until it cooks and becomes soft and creamy. This usually takes about 30-35 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens, add sugar to the pan. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Crush the green cardamom pods and add the seeds to the rice pudding for a fragrant flavor. Mix well.
- Continue to simmer the rice pudding for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency. The pudding should be creamy and thick.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Once the rice pudding is cooked to perfection, remove the pan from heat.
- Garnish the Payesh with chopped almonds and pistachios, spreading them evenly over the surface.
- Optionally, sprinkle a few strands of saffron on top of the pudding for a rich and aromatic flavor.
- Let the Payesh cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm Payesh in individual bowls or glasses, garnished with rose petals for a touch of elegance.
- Alternatively, chill the Payesh in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving for a refreshing cold dessert option.
Tips and Information
Tips and Information
- Rice Variety: While basmati rice is commonly used for Payesh, you can also use other varieties of rice like sona masuri or jasmine rice.
- Milk Consistency: Use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture. You can also use a combination of milk and condensed milk for an even richer flavor.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. You can also use jaggery or palm sugar for a traditional touch.
- Flavor Variations: Enhance the flavor of Payesh by adding a dash of rose water or kewra water during cooking for a floral aroma.
- Storage: Leftover Payesh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Enjoyed as a delightful dessert to cap off a festive meal or as a cozy treat on a cold night, Payesh will captivate your sense of taste and provide warmth to your soul with its velvety smoothness. Indulge in the thrill of traditional Bengali food by savoring every spoonful of this treasured delicacy!