Sweet Saffron Rice (kanika)

Sweet Saffron Rice, also known as Kanika, is a traditional Odia dessert that is aromatic, flavorful, and perfect for any festive occasion.

Sweet Saffron Rice (kanika)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4-5 saffron strands
  • 4-5 green cardamom pods
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 2 tablespoons cashews

Instructions

  1. Wash the basmati rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee and add the cashews and raisins. Fry until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the soaked and drained rice. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add water, saffron strands, and crushed cardamom pods to the rice. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes or until it is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, add sugar and the fried cashews and raisins. Mix gently and cook for another 5 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
2g
Protein
3g

Supplies

Heavy-bottomed pan Spatula Measuring cups Measuring spoons

Tools

Pestle and mortar (for crushing cardamom)

Serving suggestions

Serve the Sweet Saffron Rice (Kanika) warm as a delightful dessert after a traditional Odia meal.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can also add a few strands of saffron to the ghee while frying the cashews and raisins.

Cost

$5