Creamy Saffron Rice Pudding with Pistachios and Almonds

Saffron Rice Pudding
Category: Desserts | Serves: 6

A delicate and fragrant dessert, this Saffron Rice Pudding combines the aromatic spices of cardamom and cinnamon with the luxurious flavor of saffron, creating a truly unforgettable treat. With a creamy texture and a touch of elegance, it’s the perfect way to end any meal.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pistachios: Start by finely chopping the pistachios. Set them aside for later use.

2. Rinse the rice: Wash the basmati rice under warm water, rinsing it 4-5 times to remove the excess starch, which will help achieve a creamy consistency in the pudding.

3. Cook the rice: In a large pot, add the rinsed rice and 500g of cold water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. As the rice cooks, you may notice some foam forming on the surface. Skim it off using a spoon.

4. Dissolve the sugar: In a separate bowl, mix the sugar with 150g of water. Stir well until the sugar has dissolved.

5. Infuse the saffron: Add the saffron threads to the sugar-water mixture, stirring with a spoon to help the saffron release its vibrant color and aroma. Set aside.

6. Combine the rice and butter: Once the rice has absorbed most of the water and is partially cooked, add the butter in small pieces, allowing it to melt into the rice.

7. Add the saffron mixture: Pour the saffron-sugar water into the pot with the rice. Stir everything well to evenly distribute the saffron throughout the pudding.

8. Add the spices and nuts: Stir in the chopped pistachios, cardamom pods, and rose water. The cardamom will infuse a subtle warmth, while the rose water adds a lovely floral note to the dessert.

9. Set the pudding: Once everything is well mixed, continue to cook on low heat until the rice is soft and the pudding has thickened to a creamy consistency.

10. Prepare the serving dishes: While the pudding is cooking, lightly grease six 9cm diameter, 7cm high serving cups. Once the pudding is ready, carefully spoon the hot mixture into the prepared cups.

11. Decorate the pudding: Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top of each serving. Then, garnish with thin slivers of peeled almonds and pistachios to add both flavor and a touch of elegance.

12. Chill and serve: Let the rice pudding cool slightly before placing the cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set. Once chilled, your saffron rice pudding is ready to be served and enjoyed.

This saffron rice pudding, with its blend of rich spices and creamy texture, offers a delightful end to any special occasion or everyday meal. Indulge in this aromatic dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Enjoy this creamy and flavorful dessert that beautifully combines the richness of saffron with the crunch of pistachios and almonds!