Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices
A comforting Trinidadian vermicelli dessert simmered in sweetened milk infused with warm spices, perfect for festive occasions. This caribbean-inspired desserts ready in about 35 minutes layers grams vermicelli (thin), whole milk, granulated sugar into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 200 grams vermicelli (thin)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3, crushed cardamom pods
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 200 grams thin vermicelli, breaking it into 2-inch pieces, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vermicelli turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
- Step 2: Pour in 4 cups whole milk and add 1 cup granulated sugar, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Step 3: Add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 3 crushed cardamom pods, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the milk mixture. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Step 4: Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the vermicelli is tender and the milk has thickened slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Step 5: Stir in 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds and 1/4 cup raisins, allowing them to warm through for 2 minutes.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and discard the cardamom pods. Serve the sawine warm or chilled in individual bowls, garnished with extra toasted almonds if desired.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Simmered Vermicelli Sawine with Sweetened Milk and Aromatic Spices?
Caribbean desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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