Eid 2025: History behind seviyan and how to make it at home; recipe inside

If you want to add a royal touch to your Eid celebrations this year, try this authentic Dum Ki Meethi Seviyan recipe. (Image: Freepik)

Eid is one of the most cherished festivals in Islam, marks the conclusion of Ramadan—a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. As the crescent moon signals the arrival of Eid, Muslim communities worldwide come together in joyous celebrations, offering prayers, exchanging heartfelt greetings, and indulging in festive delicacies. Among these culinary delights, one dish holds a special place on the Eid table—seviyan, a traditional sweet vermicelli pudding.

The legacy of seviyan

Seviyan, also known as sheer khurma in some regions, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to Persia and the Indian subcontinent, where it evolved into a beloved dessert across Islamic cultures. During the Mughal era in India, the dish underwent several transformations, becoming more decadent with the addition of ghee, jaggery, and aromatic rose syrup.

One of the most luxurious renditions was Dum ki Meethi Seviyan, which involved slow-roasting hand-rolled vermicelli in ghee before blending it with khoya and jaggery for a deep, caramelised sweetness. This version was so highly regarded that Emperor Shah Jahan himself ordered special varq (edible silver foil) to adorn it during Eid celebrations.

The tradition of making seviyan by hand continued until the reign of Bahadur Shah Zafar, who would personally prepare the dish during his fasting days. Today, while modern recipes have simplified the process, the essence of seviyan remains unchanged—a symbol of festivity, hospitality, and togetherness.

Also Read | What the Eid-ul-Fitr tradition is

Happy cooking! (Image: Freepik)

Dum Ki Meethi Seviyan Recipe

If you want to add a royal touch to your Eid celebrations this year, try this authentic Dum Ki Meethi Seviyan recipe. With its rich texture and aromatic flavours, this dessert is guaranteed to be a showstopper at your festive table.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted vermicelli (seviyan)
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 115 gm khoya (reduced milk solids)
• 100 gm jaggery (gud)
• 250 ml milk
• 100 gm rose syrup
• ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
• ¼ cup raisins
• ½ tsp cardamom powder
• Silver varq (optional, for garnish)

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the ghee and add the roasted vermicelli. Stir continuously over medium heat until it turns golden brown and aromatic.

2. Crumble the khoya into the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to blend into the vermicelli. The mixture should develop a rich, creamy texture.

3. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and add the jaggery. Stir until the jaggery completely dissolves, infusing the milk with its deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Also Read | Eid 2025 recipes: How to prepare Shahi Tukda, Halim Tarts, other delicacies for your Iftar party

4. Pour the warm jaggery-infused milk into the seviyan and khoya mixture. Add the rose syrup, chopped nuts, and raisins. Stir well and let it simmer over medium heat until the vermicelli absorbs the liquid and achieves a thick, pudding-like consistency.

5. Sprinkle cardamom powder for a hint of warmth and aroma. Transfer the seviyan to a serving dish and garnish with silver varq and extra chopped nuts for an opulent finish.

6. Enjoy warm for a comforting treat or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing, cool dessert. Either way, this traditional Eid sweet is bound to delight your guests.