Its almost a week since the onset of new year. I had too many things to juggle. So my prasadam for the Lord Krishna was simple and saral.I made the avil /aval/beaten rice flakes payasam..sweet pudding. Its yummy and quick to make.

Do you know the story of Sudhama, and why poha has a special significance in offering to Krishna. Sudhama and Krishna were friends and studied together in the gurukul. Back in those days all children grew up in the teachers house. One day guru ma (teacher's wife) asked Krishna and Balaram to collect wood for fire, from the forest. When they did not return in the evening she then sent Sudhama with some food for them. It was dark and Sudhama wandered in the woods looking for his dear friend Krishna.

Then it started pouring and all 3 sat under a tree. Sudhama stealthily started eating all the food.Krishna asked what noise is that to which Sudhama said his teeth were making the noise as it is too cold...Krishna, the all prevaling knew what was going on.

Many years later Krishna went back to his palace and Sudhama a brahmin lived a miserable life in poverty. His children and wife suffered. His wife suggested one day that he must meet Krishna and seek his help, coz he was a King. Sudhama was reluctant but he wanted to seek help for his children. Then his wife borrowed some avil/ beaten rice from teh neighbour and cooked it for Krishna.

Sudhama took it along and offered it to Krishna when he met him. Krishna knew Sudhamas love and faith in him was pure. He turned Sudhamas hut to a palace. His store room full of food..He gave him good clothes..Sudhama thanked Krishna and lived happily.
They say an offering however simple may be a fruit , a flower or food..made with pure heart makes its way to the Lord. Im sure you enjoyed the story now for the recipe...

The pal(milk) payasam , pudding or kheer is a favorite for many and sweets are always made on happy occassions. So how could my Krishna do without a sweet. So a sweet start to a sweet and happy new year. Wish all my friends a happy Vishu. :)

Ingredients
Milk 2 cups
sugar 3/4 cup
Poha/rice flakes/aval/avil 1 cup
Cashew 5-7
Raisins 2 tsp
Ghee 1 tbspn
Water 2 cups

How To:

Fry kaju and raisins seperately in ghee and set aside.
Fry poha/rice flakes in ghee till it turns brownish in colour.

Take 2 cups of water and heat for 2-4 minutes. Add the fried flakes. After flakes turn soft , add sugar and milk. Add cardmom powder and stir well. Ensure you cook on low flame till it thickens. Payasam will send a mouth watering aroma.

Remove from stove and add the fried kaju and raisins.
Serve hot or chill in refrigerator.