PAYASAM RICE / PUDDING RICE

Payasam Rice is a traditional short-grain rice variety specially used in South Indian sweet dishes, particularly the creamy dessert known as payasam or kheer. This rice is prized for its soft texture, rich starch content, and mild aroma, which helps create a naturally thick and luscious consistency when cooked with milk or coconut milk. Commonly used varieties include Jeerakasala (Seeraga Samba) and Unakkalari (parboiled raw rice), both of which are known for their quick cooking and delicate flavor. Payasam rice plays a key role in festive and religious preparations across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, especially in temple offerings and celebratory feasts. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it ideal for milk-based sweets like Pal Payasam and jaggery-based desserts like Sharkara Payasam. Unlike regular table rice, it’s not typically used in savory dishes due to its soft and sticky nature when cooked. Whether for traditional functions or homely celebrations, payasam rice brings authenticity and richness to every sweet spoonful.