Postpartum Healing Recipe: Coconut-Sesame Kheer Ayurvedic Dessert 

As a mother recovers from birth, nourishment becomes a vital pillar of postpartum care. In Ayurveda, emphasis is placed on providing warming, grounding, and easily digestible meals that support both physical recovery and emotional well-being. This Coconut-Sesame Kheer is designed with that in mind—a comforting, creamy dessert with carefully chosen ingredients that aid the body’s healing process.

Sesame seeds are particularly beneficial for new mothers as they are packed with calcium, healthy fats, and essential minerals for rebuilding strength and vitality after birth. Known for their grounding qualities, sesame seeds also help balance Vata, which can become imbalanced during postpartum, often leading to feelings of anxiety or restlessness.

The addition of high-quality, organic cow’s milk provides a soothing and nourishing base, rich in good fats that help regulate hormones and energy levels during the postpartum period. The warming spices, like ginger and cardamom, support digestion, while jaggery aids blood-building and offers natural sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels.

This dish is ideal for the early postpartum days when a new mother requires gentle yet nourishing meals to restore strength and balance. We hope this postpartum healing recipe brings comfort and warmth to your recovery journey.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup organic basmati rice
• 2 cups full-fat organic milk
• 2 cups sesame seed milk (see instructions below)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup jaggery or coconut sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup toasted black sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup soaked chopped almonds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• A pinch of Himalayan pink salt
• 1 tablespoon ghee (for toasting nuts and seeds)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

Prep the Ingredients:

• Wash the basmati rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
• Grate the fresh ginger.
• Soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water or milk.

Prepare the Sesame Seed Milk:

• Soak 1/2 cup sesame seeds in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Drain the seeds and blend them with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
• Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine cheesecloth to extract the milk. Set aside.

Cook the Rice:

• In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
• Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is fully cooked and water is absorbed (about 10-15 minutes).
• Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Kheer Base:

• In a large saucepan, heat the cow’s milk and sesame seed milk together over medium heat.
• Add the grated ginger and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Combine Rice and Milk:

• Once the milk is simmering, add the cooked basmati rice to the pan.
• Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed in the milk mixture.

Add Sweetness and Flavor:

• Stir in the jaggery or coconut sugar until fully dissolved.
• Add the ground cardamom, saffron (with its soaking liquid), and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the kheer to thicken to your desired consistency.

Toast the Sesame Seeds and Cashews:

• While the kheer is simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped cashews and toast them until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, lightly toast the sesame seeds until they start to pop and turn golden. Set aside with the cashews.

Finish and Serve:

• Once the kheer has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using).
• Serve the kheer warm, topped with the toasted sesame seeds and cashews.

Notes:

The combination of sesame seed milk and cow’s milk offers a rich, creamy texture with warming and grounding qualities, making this kheer especially nourishing for postpartum care. It is best enjoyed warm and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

About the Author: Written by Courtney of Mothersource. Mothersource was born out of Courtney's transformative journey through her second pregnancy at 45. The intent is to support mothers during their postpartum journey, offering a sanctuary where they can find nourishment, support, and healing in the comfort of their own homes. Mothersource provides tailored Ayurvedic meals, belly binding, and the anointing of healing oils to address the unique challenges mothers face in Western culture. If you would like more information on Ayurvedic postpartum care, visit www.mothersource.com.