Indulge in the rich flavours of dates payasam this Onam

Onam festivities are incomplete without the indulgence of a sumptuous sadya. For those with a sweet tooth, the season is synonymous with enjoying delectable payasams. While traditional sadyas include savory dishes like avial, thoran, sambar, kootu curry, and pickles, the feast truly concludes with a delicious payasam. As Kerala embraces the Onam spirit, kitchens are buzzing with preparations for the inevitable Onasadya. Chef Rinu of Marriott's Port Muziris Hotel shares a recipe for a special dates payasam that adds a unique touch to this Onam.

Dates, a staple in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines, are available throughout the year and are rich in macronutrients and essential vitamins. They can be a great addition to your daily diet. Here's a simple and flavourful recipe for dates payasam:

Ingredients
Dates
Jaggery syrup
Coconut milk
Cardamom powder
Cumin powder
Dried ginger powder
Cashews
Coconut shards
Sesame seeds
Ghee

Preparation
Heat ghee in a pan.
Fry the coconut shards, cashews, and sesame seeds separately. Set them aside.
In the same pan, add more ghee and then add the dates blended with a little water.
Cook until the water evaporates completely from the dates paste.
Add the jaggery syrup and mix well.
Stir in cardamom powder, dried ginger powder, and cumin powder. Mix thoroughly.
Add the first extract of coconut milk once the payasam reaches a one-string consistency.
Mix well and garnish with the fried cashews, coconut shards, and sesame seeds.
Your delicious dates payasam is now ready to be enjoyed!