Sholeh Zard (Persian saffron rice pudding)

Name: Sholeh Zard (Persian saffron rice pudding)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup Basmati rice; 1,5 liter water; 750 ml water to be added; pinch of salt; 1/4 tsp saffron threads; 1/3 cups of Rosewater; 1,25 cups of sugar; 35 grams slivered almonds; 1/4 tbs cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cardamom; Cinnamon; Slivered almonds; unsalted pistachios chopped; dried rose petals

9 steps

Prep:15minCook:2h 30min

Explore the timeless allure of Sholeh Zard, a cherished Persian dessert rooted in centuries-old tradition. Originating from ancient Persia, where rice and saffron were revered staples, Sholeh Zard embodies the essence of culinary craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Deeply intertwined with Persian traditions, Sholeh Zard holds a prominent place in celebrations and religious festivals, notably Nowruz, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and the onset of spring. Over time, this iconic dessert has evolved, embracing regional variations while preserving its core ingredients of rice, saffron, and sugar. In our family recipe, Sholeh Zard receives an exquisite touch with fragrant rosewater, warming cinnamon, and aromatic cardamom, enriching the velvety rice pudding with layers of flavor. Adorned with almonds and pistachios, each spoonful offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes, further enhanced by a hint of butter for indulgent richness. As a symbol of hospitality and generosity, Sholeh Zard is shared joyously among loved ones, fostering bonds of kinship and community during festive gatherings. Beyond its culinary appeal, this beloved dessert embodies the enduring legacy of Persian culture, inviting us to embrace tradition and savor the essence of togetherness.

Updated at: Sat, 30 Mar 2024 20:41:51 GMT

Nutrition balance score

Unbalanced

Glycemic Index

Moderate

Glycemic Load

High

Nutrition per serving

Calories172.4 kcal (9%)

Total Fat3.8 g (5%)

Carbs33.2 g (13%)

Sugars21.2 g (24%)

Protein2.5 g (5%)

Sodium20.4 mg (1%)

Fiber1.2 g (4%)

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Ingredients

12 servings

1 cupbasmati rice

1.5 literwater

750mlwater

to be added

salt

¼ tspsaffron threads

⅓ cupsRosewater

1 ¼ cupssugar

35 gramsalmonds

slivered

¼ Tbscinnamon

½ tspground cardamom

Garnish

Instructions

Step 1

Wash your rice thoroughly with fresh cold water.

Step 2

Add your rice to a large pan (approximately 3 liters) and pour in 1,5 liters of boiling water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer without covering the pan.

Step 3

Grind your saffron in a mortar and pestle, then add two ice cubes to it and allow it to bloom.

Step 4

Let it simmer for at least 1.5 hours on low or until most of the water has evaporated and the rice has become completely tender. Test the rice by gently squeezing one grain between your thumb and index finger; it should fall apart with a sticky texture.

Step 5

Add the remaining cups of boiling water, sugar (adjust to taste), cinnamon, cardamom, slivered almonds, and your bloomed saffron. Increase the heat to medium-low and bring it to a boil. Continue cooking until the Sholeh Zard thickens. Stir several times with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Remove from the heat, add your butter, and mix well.

Step 7

Pour your Sholeh Zard into your serving dish. For dinner parties, you can choose to serve it using individual dessert cups or bowls (120/125 ml) and garnish each to add some elegance to it.

Step 8

Allow it to cool at room temperature. If you prefer to serve it cold, refrigerate for at least two hours.

Step 9

Garnish your Sholeh Zard before serving with cinnamon, chopped pistachios, slivered almonds, and some dried rose petals.