The auspicious days of Shardiya Navratri are underway, and on the second day—October 12th—Goddess Brahmacharini, the second manifestation of Maa Durga, is worshipped. Goddess Brahmacharini is revered as the embodiment of simplicity and penance. According to religious beliefs, she is particularly fond of white-colored items and sweets made from milk.

To seek the Goddess's blessings and grace, you can offer her homemade, pure 'Makhana Kheer' (fox nut pudding). Makhana Kheer is not only delicious but also provides ample energy during the fast. It is very easy to prepare. Let us look at the step-by-step recipe for making Makhana Kheer for the Goddess.

**Ingredients Required for Makhana Kheer**
Makhana (Fox nuts/Lotus seeds) – 1 to 2 cups
Full-cream milk – ½ liter
Desi Ghee (Clarified butter) – 1 tablespoon
Sugar or Mishri (Rock sugar) – 3–4 tablespoons
Green cardamom powder – ½ teaspoon
Finely chopped dry fruits (cashews, almonds, pistachios, and raisins) – 2 tablespoons

**Method of Preparation**
First, place a heavy-bottomed pan or *kadhai* on the stove and add 1 tablespoon of desi ghee. Once the ghee is hot, add the makhana and roast them on a low flame for 3–4 minutes until they become crisp.

Once the makhana are roasted and have cooled down, coarsely grind half of them using a mixer or a rolling pin. Leave the other half whole. Doing this gives the kheer a thick, creamy, and rich texture (*rabri*-like consistency).

Next, pour the milk into a deep vessel and place it on the stove to boil. Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the flame to low.

Add both the whole and the coarsely ground roasted makhana into the boiling milk. Now, mix everything well with a spoon and let it cook on a low flame for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the kheer from sticking to the bottom of the vessel.

Once the milk has thickened and the makhana (fox nuts) have softened completely and blended into the milk, add sugar or rock sugar (mishri) to taste. Also, add the cardamom powder and finely chopped dry fruits (cashews, almonds, pistachios).

After mixing everything, cook the kheer for another 2 minutes to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Now, turn off the heat. Your delicious and nutritious Makhana Kheer is ready!

Transfer the kheer to a lovely bowl and garnish with some chopped dry fruits. Offer this Makhana Kheer to Goddess Brahmacharini with devotion during the puja, and then distribute it as *prasad* to the entire family.

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