Sholeh Zard Recipe: Saffron Rice Pudding
Sholeh Zard is a traditional Persian saffron rice pudding that is not only delicious but also beautifully fragrant. It’s a special dessert often served during celebrations and family gatherings. This recipe yields a creamy and aromatic treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Recipe Information:
| Course | Cuisine | Servings | Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | Persian | 4-6 | 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 250 kcal |
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup rosewater
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup slivered pistachios
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, wash the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan, add 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add the washed rice to the boiling water and cook it until it’s tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Drain the cooked rice.
- In another pot, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, add the sugar and stir until it dissolves and the mixture becomes a light golden color.
- Add the cooked rice to the butter-sugar mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another 10-15 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, soak the saffron threads in a small amount of warm water for a few minutes to release their vibrant color and aroma.
- Add the saffron-infused water and rosewater to the rice mixture. Continue to cook and stir for an additional 10-15 minutes until the pudding thickens.
- Remove the Sholeh Zard from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the pudding to a serving dish and garnish with slivered almonds and pistachios. You can also sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for added flavor and decoration.
- Allow the Sholeh Zard to cool to room temperature before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on your preference.
- Serve this delectable saffron rice pudding as a dessert during your next Persian-inspired meal or on special occasions. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of Sholeh Zard!
