Sholeh zard (saffron rice pudding) is an aromatic and flavorful traditional Iranian dessert. In our home sholeh zard was prepared frequently and not necessarily due to any special occasions or any religious rituals. Sholeh zard is a rich and sweet pudding; good for any time of the year and for any kind of get together, especially for family and friends gathering. This is a delicious dessert that's easy to make.

 

Ingredients: 

Serves 4-6

 

1 1/2 cups rice

2 cups sugar

3 tablespoons butter

 6 cups water 

 1/2 cup rose water

1 teaspoon ground saffron dissolved in 3 tablespoons hot water

1/2 cup slivered almonds

 

Garnish:

2 tablespoons slivered almonds

2 tablespoons ground pistachios

1-2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

 

Method:

 

Wash the rice with cool water, place in a bowl and soak in 2 cups of water for  least couple of hours or preferably overnight. 

Drain the washed and soaked rice, place in a large pot, add 6 cups of water, and bring to boil, cover and cook over low heat for 40 minutes or until the rice is soft. 

Add butter and stir well. Add a cup of warm water to the softened rice if needed. Cook for another 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. 

Add sugar to the pot and stir until it is dissolved completely, then add the saffron and mix thoroughly. Cover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes. 

Add slivered almonds and the rosewater 10 minutes before removing the pudding from the heat.

Pour the pudding into a large bowl or several small bowls.  Garnish with cinnamon, almonds and pistachios and let cool at least an hour before serving.

 

Enjoy!

 

 

Recipe and photo by: Azita