Biyyam Pongali (Sweet Pongal) [ Origin: Andhra Pradesh / Tamil Nadu]

 Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup raw rice
– 1/4 cup moong dal
– 1/2 cup jaggery (grated)
– 2 tbsp ghee
– 6–8 cashews
– 6–8 raisins
– 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
– 2 cups water + 1/2 cup milk (optional)

Instructions:
1. Dry roast moong dal lightly until aromatic.
2. Wash rice and moong dal together. Add to pressure cooker with 2.5 cups water (and milk if using). Cook for 3–4 whistles.
3. In a separate pan, melt jaggery with 2 tbsp water. Strain if impurities exist.
4. Add the jaggery syrup to the cooked rice-dal mixture. Cook on low flame for 5–6 mins.
5. In a small pan, heat ghee and roast cashews and raisins. Add to pongal along with cardamom.
6. Serve warm. Optional: Add 1 tbsp grated coconut for a richer taste.