Zarda (fragrant Rosewater Rice Pudding)

Zarda is a traditional fragrant rice pudding infused with rosewater, a popular dessert in Navyath Muslim Cuisine.

Zarda (fragrant Rosewater Rice Pudding)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
  • 1/4 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons rosewater

Instructions

  1. Wash the basmati rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add the soaked rice. Cook until the rice is 70% done, then drain any excess water.
  3. In a separate pan, heat the ghee and add the mixed nuts. Sauté until the nuts are golden brown, then set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the cooked rice, sugar, saffron, and cardamom. Cook on low heat until the sugar dissolves and the rice is fully cooked.
  5. Stir in the rosewater and half of the sautéed nuts. Mix well and remove from heat.
  6. Transfer the Zarda to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining sautéed nuts.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
5g
Protein
4g

Supplies

Pot Pan Serving dish

Tools

Stove Spatula Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve Zarda warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of edible rose petals for an elegant touch.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can also add a few drops of kewra (screw pine) essence along with the rosewater.

Cost

$10