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.
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
- Wash the basmati rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee and add the cashews and raisins. Fry until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the soaked and drained rice. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add water, saffron strands, and crushed cardamom pods to the rice. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- 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.
- Once the rice is cooked, add sugar and the fried cashews and raisins. Mix gently and cook for another 5 minutes.
- 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