The South Asian dessert made with vermicelli and traditionally served during Eid al-Fitr is sheer khurma.
Sheer khurma is a sweet milk pudding prepared with fine vermicelli, dates, sugar, and often cardamom, saffron, nuts, or raisins. The Persian-derived name refers to milk and dates. Families commonly prepare it before or on Eid morning and serve it to relatives and guests.
The dish is particularly associated with Muslim communities in South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Recipes differ by region: some versions are thick and pudding-like, while others contain more milk and resemble a sweet vermicelli drink.
Sheer khurma is related to other milk-and-vermicelli desserts but should not be confused with kheer, which is usually rice-based, or seviyan, a broader name for vermicelli preparations. Its Eid connection makes it a distinctive festive food rather than an everyday dessert.