Semiya pudding recipe

Semiya pudding recipe is a easy Indian recipe that serves 6. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by 5minutes Cooking on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 16 min | Total: 44 min

Cost: $38.94 total, $6.49 per serving

Ingredients

  • 200 g Vermicelli (Semiya) (any type – regular, double‑roasted or poha vermicelli; crush into small pieces)
  • 2 Tbsp Ghee (or unsalted butter, melted)
  • 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Milk Powder (optional – adds softness; if omitted use water)
  • 3 Tbsp Water (only if milk powder is not used)
  • 1/2 cup Milk (for the custard‑milk mixture)
  • 2 Tbsp Custard Powder (vanilla flavored)
  • 3 Tbsp Condensed Milk (adds sweetness and richness)
  • 0.5 tsp Vanilla Essence (or 0.5 tsp ground cardamom powder)
  • 2 Tbsp Dry Fruits and Nuts (Almonds, Cashews, Raisins) (chopped; optional for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Vermicelli

    Measure 200 g vermicelli. Place in a zip‑bag and crush lightly so the pieces are small but not powdery.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Roast Vermicelli with Ghee

    Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add 2 Tbsp ghee, then the crushed vermicelli. Stir continuously until the vermicelli turns a dark golden‑brown and becomes crisp.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: Medium

  3. Add Sweeteners

    Sprinkle 2 Tbsp sugar over the roasted vermicelli. If using milk powder, add 1 Tbsp now and stir; otherwise add 3 Tbsp water. Continue to stir for 2 minutes so the sugar melts and coats the vermicelli.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium

  4. Prepare Custard‑Milk Mixture

    In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup milk, 2 Tbsp custard powder, and 0.5 tsp vanilla essence (or cardamom powder). Whisk until smooth; set aside.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Cook Custard Sauce

    In the same pan, pour 1 L milk and bring to a gentle boil over medium‑high heat. Reduce heat to low, then whisk in the custard‑milk mixture followed by 3 Tbsp condensed milk. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

    Time: PT7M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  6. Cool Slightly

    Remove the pan from heat and let the custard sauce cool for 5 minutes so it is warm but not hot.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Layer the Pudding

    Take the serving box. Press a thick layer of the roasted vermicelli at the bottom. Pour a layer of the warm custard sauce over it, spreading evenly. Repeat the vermicelli‑custard layers until the box is filled, finishing with a vermicelli layer.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Add Topping

    Scatter the chopped dry fruits and nuts over the top layer. Lightly press to adhere.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Chill

    Cover the dish and refrigerate for 3–4 hours until set. Serve cold.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑free (if rice vermicelli is used)

Allergens: Milk, Tree nuts

Last updated: March 13, 2026

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Semiya pudding recipe

Recipe by 5minutes Cooking

A layered South Indian‑style vermicelli (semai) pudding that mimics the texture of kunafa. Crispy roasted vermicelli is alternated with a rich vanilla‑custard sauce enriched with condensed milk, then topped with chopped dry fruits. Ready in under an hour and perfect after a few hours of chilling.

EasyIndianServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
22m
Prep
14m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$38.94
Total cost
$6.49
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Roasting vermicelli until a deep golden‑brown color without burning.
  • Thickening the custard sauce to the correct consistency.
  • Pressing each vermicelli layer firmly to avoid collapse.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot milk can scald – handle with care.
  • Do not leave the pan unattended while the custard thickens to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Vermicelli Custard Pudding (Semiya Pudding) in South Indian cuisine?

A

Vermicelli pudding, known as "semai payasam" in Tamil Nadu, is a festive sweet traditionally prepared during celebrations like Pongal and weddings. It blends the texture of roasted vermicelli with the richness of milk‑based custard, reflecting the region’s love for dairy‑forward desserts.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of semiya pudding in Indian cuisine?

A

In Kerala, the pudding often includes coconut milk and cardamom, while in Andhra Pradesh it may be flavored with saffron and topped with cashews. Some North Indian versions use vermicelli fried in ghee and sweetened with jaggery instead of sugar.

cultural
Q

How is Vermicelli Custard Pudding traditionally served in Tamil households?

A

It is usually served chilled in small bowls, sometimes garnished with a drizzle of extra condensed milk and a sprinkle of roasted nuts. It is enjoyed as a dessert after the main meal or as a sweet offering during festivals.

cultural
Q

During which occasions is Vermicelli Custard Pudding commonly prepared in Tamil culture?

A

The dish is popular during Pongal, Diwali, weddings, and baby‑shower celebrations. Its quick preparation and ability to be made ahead make it a favorite for large gatherings.

cultural
Q

What makes Vermicelli Custard Pudding special compared to other Indian desserts?

A

Its layered texture mimics the crisp‑soft contrast of Middle‑Eastern kunafa, while using familiar Indian ingredients like vermicelli, condensed milk, and cardamom. The combination of crunchy roasted vermicelli and silky custard is unique in South Indian sweets.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Vermicelli Custard Pudding from the YouTube channel 5minutes Cooking?

A

Common errors include over‑roasting the vermicelli until it turns black, not thickening the custard enough, and layering the pudding while the custard is still piping hot, which makes the vermicelli soggy. Follow the timing cues and let the custard cool slightly before layering.

technical
Q

Why does the 5minutes Cooking recipe use condensed milk instead of regular sugar for sweetness?

A

Condensed milk adds both sweetness and a creamy richness that ordinary sugar cannot provide. It also helps the custard set faster and gives the pudding a glossy finish.

technical
Q

Can I make Vermicelli Custard Pudding ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can assemble the pudding a day ahead. Keep it covered and refrigerated; it will stay fresh for up to three days. Re‑heat only the topping if you prefer a slightly warm serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the custard sauce is done in the 5minutes Cooking Vermicelli Custard Pudding recipe?

A

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and have a glossy sheen. When you draw a line through the sauce with the spoon, it should stay distinct without running.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel 5minutes Cooking specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel 5minutes Cooking specializes in quick, easy‑to‑follow Indian recipes that can be prepared in under five minutes of active cooking time, focusing on everyday home‑cooking techniques and short video formats.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel 5minutes Cooking's approach to Indian desserts differ from other Indian cooking channels?

A

5minutes Cooking emphasizes speed and simplicity, using minimal equipment and readily available ingredients while still preserving authentic flavors. Other channels may delve deeper into traditional techniques or elaborate presentations, whereas 5minutes Cooking keeps the process streamlined for busy home cooks.

channel

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