Sholeh Zard Recipe β Persian Saffron Rice Pudding
Sholeh Zard is a traditional Persian dessert that envelops the senses with its inviting aroma of rose water and cinnamon. This rich, golden-hued rice pudding is infused with the luxurious flavors of saffron, cardamom, and almond meal, creating a sweet, aromatic treat that is both comforting and indulgent. With its velvety texture and delicate flavors, Sholeh Zard has earned its place in the hearts of many as a perfect dessert to end any meal, especially when served alongside the rich and flavorful Khoresht Fesenjan or Modur Pulao.
Description
This Persian Saffron Rice Pudding, known as Sholeh Zard, is an exquisite dish that combines the natural sweetness of basmati rice, icing sugar, and the fragrant notes of saffron, rose water, and cinnamon. Almond meal and cardamom powder enhance the depth of flavor, while the ghee adds a rich, silky finish. The garnishing of chopped almonds, pistachios, and cinnamon gives a delightful crunch and an extra layer of aromatic intensity, making it a visually stunning and irresistible dessert.
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Course: Dessert
Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Water | 8 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Icing Sugar | 3 cups |
| Ghee | 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 |
| Whole Almonds (Badam), chopped | 4 tablespoons |
| Pistachios (optional), chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Sodium | 30mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
- Start by washing the basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove the excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky. Repeat the washing process 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Once done, strain the rice and set it aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Rice
-
In a deep kadai (wok or pan), pour in 8 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Add the rice into the boiling water, stirring gently to prevent clumping. Allow the rice to boil for a few minutes, during which time you should remove the white froth that forms on the surface.
-
Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan with a lid, and let the rice cook for about 15 minutes or until it softens and becomes tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Preparing the Saffron Mixture
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the saffron infusion. In a small bowl, combine the saffron strands with 2 tablespoons of hot water (or milk, if you prefer). Let the saffron soak in the liquid to release its vibrant color and distinct flavor. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step 4: Adding Sugar and Flavorings
-
Once the rice is soft, add the icing sugar to the cooked rice, stirring gently. Continue to stir the mixture for 10-15 minutes to dissolve the sugar completely, and allow the pudding to begin thickening.
-
When the mixture starts to become sticky, incorporate the saffron infusion, almond meal (badam powder), cardamom powder, and rose water. Stir everything together until the pudding reaches a smooth consistency.
-
Add the ghee (or unsalted butter) into the mixture, which will bring a rich, creamy texture to the pudding. Stir well to ensure the ghee is fully absorbed into the pudding.
Step 5: Simmering the Pudding
- Cover the pan with a lid and simmer the mixture on low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. The pudding will slowly thicken into a creamy, custard-like consistency. Be patient during this process, as this slow simmering ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Cooling and Setting
- Once the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Transfer the Sholeh Zard into serving bowls or a large dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set completely.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
- Before serving, garnish the Sholeh Zard with chopped whole almonds, pistachios (if using), and a sprinkle of cinnamon powder for an added touch of color and flavor. The combination of the crunchy nuts, fragrant cinnamon, and vibrant saffron makes each bite a delightful experience.
Sholeh Zard is now ready to serve as a luxurious, comforting dessert, perfect for a celebratory meal or as a sweet treat after any special occasion. Its delicate flavors, combined with the exotic aromas of saffron and rose water, make it a true representation of Persian hospitality.
Tips for the Perfect Sholeh Zard:
- Saffron: Make sure to use high-quality saffron for the best flavor and color. Soaking it in warm water or milk enhances its potency.
- Consistency: The pudding thickens as it cools, so if you prefer a thicker consistency, cook it a little longer. If you like a creamier texture, you can add a bit more ghee or milk.
- Optional Garnish: Besides pistachios and almonds, you can also sprinkle a little more cardamom powder or rose petals for an extra floral note.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving, adding a little milk if needed to loosen the pudding.
Serving Suggestions:
Sholeh Zard pairs beautifully with Persian meals, especially rich stews like Khoresht Fesenjan (a pomegranate and walnut stew) or alongside Modur Pulao, a fragrant rice pilaf. Itβs also a delightful dish for special occasions, including Persian New Year (Nowruz) celebrations, and makes for a memorable dessert after a festive dinner.
Enjoy the creamy richness and aromatic beauty of this Persian classic, and share a spoonful of its warmth with your loved ones!
