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Sholeh Zard Saffron Rice Pudding Recipe

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Sholeh Zard, a decadent Persian saffron rice pudding! This stunning dessert, adapted from Najmieh Batmanglij's "Persian Cooking for a Healthy Kitchen," is surprisingly easy to make despite its long, slow cooking time. The creamy rice pudding is infused with fragrant saffron, crunchy almonds, and a hint of rosewater, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 61 mins
Calories 529.3 kcal
Protein 6g
Rating 0.0 (1 Reviews)
Sholeh Zard Saffron Rice Pudding 12

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Sholeh Zard Saffron Rice Pudding

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How to Make Sholeh Zard Saffron Rice Pudding

  1. Rinse 2 cups of basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice and 10 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender but not mushy. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  4. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar and stir gently to combine.
  5. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. While the rice simmers, prepare the saffron infusion: Gently crush 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads and steep them in 2 tablespoons of hot water for 10 minutes to release their color and flavor.
  7. Stir in 1/4 cup corn oil, 1/2 cup slivered almonds, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 2 tablespoons of rose water into the rice pudding.
  8. Add the saffron infusion to the rice pudding. Stir well to combine.
  9. Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  10. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the rice has thickened to a creamy pudding consistency.
  11. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  12. Gently spoon the Sholeh Zard into a serving bowl or individual serving dishes.
  13. Garnish with ground cinnamon and/or slivered pistachios, if desired.
  14. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to chill completely before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

351g

Fat

6g

Carbs

36g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion Jewish Sephardi Desserts Rice Asian Middle Eastern Iranian Persian Dinner Party Holiday Event Kosher Vegan Vegetarian Puddings And Mousses Stove Top Dietary Wedding Rosh Hashana Pasta Rice And Grains White Rice Taste Mood Sweet Equipment 4 Hours Or Less