

Dry Sweet Vermicelli (Jorda Semai) is a classic and delightful dessert popular in South Asian cuisine, especially in Bangladesh and India. This sweet dish is made with roasted vermicelli, ghee, sugar, milk, and aromatic spices like cardamom. It’s often garnished with nuts and raisins, making it a rich and flavorful treat.
This recipe guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making perfect Jorda Semai at home. Whether you’re preparing it for Eid, Ramadan, or any special occasion, this dessert will surely impress your family and guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Rich & Flavorful – Aromatic spices and crunchy nuts enhance the taste.
- Versatile – Can be served warm or chilled.
- Perfect for Festivals – Ideal for Eid, Ramadan, weddings, and family gatherings.
Ingredients for Dry Sweet Vermicelli (Jorda Semai)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dessert:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Vermicelli (Semai) | 2 cups |
Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 3 tbsp |
Sugar | 1 cup (adjust to taste) |
Milk | 2 cups |
Water | 1 cup |
Cardamom Powder | 1 tsp |
Bay Leaf (Optional) | 1 |
Raisins | 2 tbsp |
Cashew Nuts | 2 tbsp |
Almonds (Chopped) | 2 tbsp |
Pistachios (Chopped) | 1 tbsp (for garnish) |
Saffron Strands (Optional) | A few strands |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Vermicelli
- Heat 2 tbsp ghee in a pan on medium flame.
- Add 2 cups of vermicelli and roast until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir continuously to avoid burning.
Step 2: Prepare Sugar Syrup
- In another pan, add 1 cup sugar + 1 cup water.
- Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Add 1 bay leaf (optional) and 1 tsp cardamom powder for flavor.
Step 3: Cook Vermicelli in Milk
- Pour 2 cups of milk into the roasted vermicelli.
- Mix well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vermicelli softens.
- Add the sugar syrup and stir continuously.
Step 4: Add Dry Fruits
- In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee.
- Fry raisins, cashews, and almonds until golden.
- Mix them into the vermicelli for a rich taste.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle saffron strands and chopped pistachios on top.
- Serve warm or chilled as per preference.
Tips for the Best Jorda Semai
- Roast vermicelli properly to avoid a raw taste.
- Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Use full-fat milk for a creamier texture.
- Add rose water or kewra water for extra fragrance.
Variations of Sweet Vermicelli
- Kheer Vermicelli – Cooked in more milk for a creamy pudding-like texture.
- Caramelized Vermicelli – Cook sugar until caramelized for a deeper flavor.
- Fruit Vermicelli – Add mango, banana, or apple chunks for freshness.
FAQs About Jorda Semai
1. Can I use thin or thick vermicelli?
Yes, but adjust cooking time—thin vermicelli cooks faster.
2. How to store leftover Jorda Semai?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Replace ghee with coconut oil and milk with almond milk.
4. Why is my vermicelli sticky?
Overcooking can make it mushy. Cook on low heat and stir gently.
Conclusion
Dry Sweet Vermicelli (Jorda Semai) is a simple yet luxurious dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With its perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and aroma, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves traditional sweets.
Try this easy recipe today and share your feedback in the comments! Don’t forget to bookmark this page for more delicious dessert ideas.
Happy Cooking! 🍽️✨