Saffron and Cardamom Rice Pudding (Sholeh Zard-e Zaffran)

Sholeh Zard-e Zaffran, or Saffron and Cardamom Rice Pudding, is a traditional Iranian dessert that is rich in flavor and has a beautiful golden color. It's a perfect way to end a meal with a touch of sweetness and warmth.

Saffron and Cardamom Rice Pudding (Sholeh Zard-e Zaffran)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons rose water
  • 2 tablespoons slivered pistachios for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the rice. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes until the rice is tender.
  2. In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Add the saffron mixture, sugar, and cardamom to the cooked rice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for 20-25 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  3. Stir in the rose water and remove from heat. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
  4. Transfer the pudding to serving dishes and garnish with slivered pistachios. Serve warm or chilled.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Carbohydrates
40g
Fat
3g
Protein
4g

Supplies

Large pot Small bowl Serving dishes

Tools

Spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serve Sholeh Zard-e Zaffran with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for an extra flavor dimension.

Tips & tricks

Be patient while cooking the pudding to allow the flavors to develop and the pudding to thicken properly.

Cost

$8