Sholeh Zard Recipe – Persian Saffron Rice Pudding
Embrace the delightful experience of Persian cuisine with the exquisite Sholeh Zard, a luxurious saffron rice pudding that tantalizes the taste buds with its aromatic blend of ingredients. This dessert, known for its vibrant yellow hue, is not only visually appealing but also brings a unique combination of flavors, making it a perfect way to conclude a festive meal or a quiet evening. Rich in tradition and taste, this gluten-free dessert can serve as a centerpiece at any gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Water | 8 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Icing sugar | 3 cups |
| Ghee (or unsalted butter) | 1/4 cup |
| Saffron strands | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Water (or milk) | 2 tablespoons |
| Almond meal (Badam powder) | 4 tablespoons |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Rose water | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped almonds (Badam) | 4 tablespoons |
| Chopped pistachios (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cinnamon powder (Dalchini) | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 300 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 30g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Preparation Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 20 minutes |
| Total | 30 minutes |
Servings
This recipe serves 4 delightful portions.
Instructions
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Prepare the Rice: Begin your culinary journey by thoroughly washing the Basmati rice in cold running water, allowing it to soak briefly. Repeat this rinsing process 2-3 times until the water runs clear, indicating that the starch has been removed. After rinsing, strain the rice and set it aside to drain fully.
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Cooking the Rice: In a deep kadai (or large pot), bring 8 cups of water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, gently add the strained rice and season with a pinch of salt to taste. Allow the mixture to boil for several minutes, skimming off any white froth that forms on the surface. After this initial boil, lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice cook for approximately 15 minutes or until it is tender and soft.
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Infuse the Saffron: While the rice is cooking, take 1/4 teaspoon of saffron strands and steep them in 2 tablespoons of hot water or milk in a small bowl. Allow this mixture to sit, releasing the vibrant color and fragrance of the saffron, which will enhance the pudding’s overall flavor profile.
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Sweeten the Mixture: Once the rice has cooked and is tender, add 3 cups of icing sugar to the pot. Stir the mixture continuously for about 10-15 minutes to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely and the rice becomes slightly sticky, enhancing its pudding-like texture.
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Combine Ingredients: As soon as the rice takes on a sticky consistency, carefully add the saffron infusion, 4 tablespoons of almond meal, 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder, 1/4 cup of rose water, and 1/4 cup of ghee (or unsalted butter). Stir these ingredients thoroughly to combine and infuse their flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
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Simmer and Thicken: Cover the pot once more and reduce the heat to low. Allow the Sholeh Zard to simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to promote even thickening. The goal is to achieve a creamy, pudding-like consistency that embodies the essence of traditional Persian dessert.
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Chill the Pudding: Once the pudding has reached the desired thickness, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Transfer the Sholeh Zard into a serving dish or individual bowls, then cover and refrigerate for approximately 2 hours or until it is fully chilled and set.
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Serve and Garnish: To serve, delicately spoon the chilled saffron rice pudding into bowls. Garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of chopped almonds and optional chopped pistachios for added texture and a burst of color. Dust with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder for an aromatic finish, enhancing the sensory experience of this delectable dessert.
Serving Suggestions
The Sholeh Zard is an exquisite dessert that pairs beautifully with traditional Persian dishes, making it an ideal conclusion to a weekend dinner featuring favorites like Khoresht Fesenjan or Modur Pulao. Its sweet and fragrant profile is sure to impress guests and family alike, leaving them with a lasting impression of the vibrant flavors of Persian cuisine.
Indulge in the rich culinary heritage of Persia by creating this delightful Sholeh Zard, a dish that is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience steeped in tradition and love. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, aromatic saffron rice pudding!
