Discover the delightful Seeni Maa, a traditional Sri Lankan sweet semolina dish packed with cashews, raisins, and aromatic spices. Perfect for Ramadan, festive occasions, or as a versatile dessert topping, this easy Seeni Maa recipe brings authentic Sri Lankan flavors to your kitchen in just 25 minutes. Learn how to make this nostalgic treat with our step-by-step guide, optimized for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Seeni Maa Recipe
Seeni Maa, meaning “sugar powder” in Tamil, is a beloved Sri Lankan dessert known for its mildly spiced, fragrant profile. This sweet semolina dish combines the nutty crunch of cashews, the chewy sweetness of raisins, and the warm aroma of cardamom, making it a crowd-pleaser for festivals, family gatherings, or a cozy snack. Whether you’re new to Sri Lankan cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this recipe is quick, customizable, and budget-friendly, using pantry staples you likely already have!
Ingredients for Sri Lankan Seeni Maa
To create this authentic Seeni Maa, gather these simple ingredients:
- Semolina: 1 cup (fine or medium-grain, for a perfect texture)
- Sugar: 1 cup (adjust for desired sweetness)
- Ghee: 3-4 tablespoons (adds richness and binds the mix)
- Cashews: ¼ cup, roughly chopped (for crunch)
- Raisins: ¼ cup (for natural sweetness)
- Onions: 1 small, finely chopped (optional, for a unique savory depth)
- Pandan leaves: 1-2 small pieces (optional, for authentic aroma)
- Cardamom pods: 3-4, crushed (or ½ tsp ground cardamom for warmth)
- Salt: A pinch (optional, to balance flavors)
Pro Tip: Adjust sugar to taste for a less sweet version, and skip onions for a purely sweet dessert.
How to Make Seeni Maa: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of delicious Seeni Maa at home:
- Roast the Semolina:
- In a large pan over low heat, dry roast 1 cup of semolina for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. The semolina should warm slightly without changing color. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over low heat.
- Add chopped onions (if using), cashews, raisins, pandan leaves, and crushed cardamom pods. Sauté gently for 3-5 minutes until onions turn golden and cashews are lightly toasted. Avoid burning for the best flavor.
- Mix Semolina and Sugar:
- In a large, flat tray or mixing bowl, combine the roasted semolina and 1 cup of sugar. Mix thoroughly for even sweetness. Taste and add more semolina if you prefer a less sweet mix.
- Combine with Sautéed Ingredients:
- Add the sautéed onion-cashew-raisin mixture to the semolina-sugar blend.
- Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of ghee gradually, mixing to bind the ingredients into a slightly crumbly, cohesive texture. Avoid excess ghee to prevent an oily finish.
- Cool and Store:
- Spread the mixture evenly on the tray to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
Serving Ideas for Seeni Maa
This versatile Sri Lankan sweet semolina dish shines in many ways:
- Enjoy as a standalone sweet snack.
- Sprinkle over ice cream, cakes, or yogurt for a crunchy topping.
- Pair with traditional Sri Lankan dishes like milk rice or hoppers for festive meals.
Expert Tips for Perfect Seeni Maa
- Control Sweetness: Reduce sugar to ¾ cup for a lighter dessert.
- Prevent Burning: Keep heat low when roasting semolina and sautéing nuts to preserve flavors.
- Optional Ingredients: Skip onions for a sweeter profile or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Pandan Substitute: If pandan leaves are unavailable, a drop of vanilla extract works well.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Note: Values vary based on ingredient adjustments and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seeni Maa
What is Seeni Maa?
Seeni Maa is a traditional Sri Lankan sweet made from roasted semolina, sugar, ghee, cashews, raisins, and spices like cardamom. It’s a popular treat during Ramadan and festive occasions.
Can I make Seeni Maa without onions?
Yes! Omitting onions creates a purely sweet dessert, perfect for those who prefer a classic sweet flavor.
How long does Seeni Maa last?
Stored in an airtight container, Seeni Maa stays fresh for up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Is Seeni Maa the same as Seeni Sambol?
No, Seeni Maa is a sweet semolina dessert, while Seeni Sambol is a spicy caramelized onion relish. If you’re looking for a Seeni Sambol recipe, let us know!
Why This Seeni Maa Recipe Stands Out
This authentic Seeni Maa recipe is optimized for ease and flavor, making it perfect for beginners and experienced cooks. With clear instructions, customizable options, and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can recreate this Sri Lankan classic in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing for a cultural celebration or craving a unique dessert, this recipe delivers every time.
Ready to try this Sri Lankan Seeni Maa recipe? Save it for your next gathering or explore more Sri Lankan dessert recipes on our site! If you’d like a visual guide, let us know, and we can generate a chart for ingredient proportions or nutritional breakdown.