Zarda
Zarda is a sweet rice dish best served on festive occasions accompanying indulgent, spicy foods. Just a few bites of Zarda rice is a perfect treat to mellow the spices and a perfect end to a delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati Rice
- ½ -1 cup Sugar (see notes)
- ½ tsp Orange color
- a pinch Saffron, few strands
- 3 tbsp Ghee or Butter
- 2 inch Cinnamon stick
- 6-10 raisins
- 10 almonds plus more for garnish
- 5 pistachios plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and soak Basmati rice for at least 20 minutes.
- Soak the almonds and pistachios in a small bowl of water, and heat in the microwave for one minute. Set aside to cool. Then, peel the almonds and pistachios.
- Add butter or ghee to a large pot on medium heat.
- Once it has melted, add the cinnamon stick. Let it bloom in the butter or ghee until it is fragrant.
- Add 1 cup of water and a few strands of saffron, sugar, and orange food color (if using).
- Add the soaked Basmati rice.
- Add the soaked and peeled almonds, pistachios, and raisins.
- Increase the heat to high. Once the water comes to a boil, turn the heat down to low, cover it and let it cook for 20-30 mins.
- Once the rice is fully cooked, use a fork to fluff the rice.
- Garnish with more almonds and pistachios, if desired.
Notes
Adjust the sugar for your preferred sweetness. You'll need at least 1/2 cup, but increase to 1 cup if you prefer a sweeter rice.