Semiya Kesari – A Quick & Delicious South Indian Vermicelli Dessert Recipe

Introduction

Semiya Kesari is a delightful South Indian dessert made with vermicelli, sugar, ghee, saffron, and nuts. It’s a close cousin to the classic kesari (made with rava), but this version uses semiya (vermicelli) for a lighter and silkier texture. Known for its beautiful orange-yellow hue and rich aroma, this sweet dish is perfect for quick celebrations, religious offerings, or satisfying sudden sweet cravings.

The beauty of Semiya Kesari lies in its simplicity. You don’t need elaborate ingredients or prep time — just 15 minutes and a few pantry staples! It’s mildly sweet, aromatic, and melts in your mouth. Serve it warm or chilled as a festive treat or an after-meal dessert. Let’s see how to whip up this South Indian classic at home!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup roasted semiya (vermicelli)
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1/8 tsp cardamom powder
• Few strands of saffron (soaked in warm water or milk)
• 2 tbsp chopped cashews
• 1 tbsp raisins
• Pinch of food color (optional, orange or yellow)
• 1 tsp chopped almonds or pistachios (optional)
• 1 tbsp milk (optional for richness)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan. Roast cashews and raisins until golden. Set aside.
2. In the same pan, add remaining ghee and roasted semiya. Sauté for a minute.
3. Add 1¼ cups water and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Let semiya cook until soft and water is mostly absorbed.
5. Add sugar, saffron water, cardamom powder, and food color (if using).
6. Mix well. The mixture will loosen—stir on low until thickened again.
7. Add roasted nuts and raisins. Stir in 1 tbsp milk for extra richness (optional).
8. Cook until the kesari starts leaving the pan edges and has a glossy texture.
9. Serve warm or chill and enjoy later as a divine treat!

Tips & Variations

• Use pre-roasted vermicelli to save time and enhance flavor.
• Replace sugar with jaggery for a rustic taste.
• Add rose water or edible camphor for special occasions.
• Double the quantity easily for serving guests or festivals.
• Use coconut milk instead of water for a Kerala-style twist.
• Top with extra ghee drizzle before serving for a rich finish.

Health Benefits:

• Quick Energy: Sugar and vermicelli provide an instant energy boost.
• Good Fat: Ghee supports digestion and adds healthy fat.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Saffron is known to boost mood and skin glow.
• Improves Digestion: Cardamom aids in digestion after meals.
• Festive Comfort: A great mood-lifter when eaten warm.

Conclusion

Semiya Kesari is a quick and elegant Indian dessert that brings joy in every spoonful. With its rich ghee aroma, saffron flavor, and silky texture, it’s perfect for every festive moment or sweet craving.

Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a traditional South Indian treat at home!

Tags: semiya kesari, vermicelli sweet, South Indian dessert, quick Indian sweet, semiya payasam, ghee sweet recipe, festival dessert, saffron vermicelli