How to Make Sweet Rice Zarda

Learn how to make the classic and delightful sweet rice zarda. This traditional Pakistani and Indian dessert is made with fragrant basmati rice, flavored with cardamom and saffron, and garnished with nuts and dried fruits. It's a perfect dessert for special occasions or to satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow this easy recipe to create a mouthwatering dish that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup broken cashews
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

Directions

1. Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Drain the soaked rice and set it aside.
3. In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat.
4. Add the soaked rice to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
6. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
7. Allow the rice to cook for 15-20 minutes or until it is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
8. While the rice is cooking, in a separate saucepan, heat the milk over low heat.
9. Add the saffron strands to the warm milk and let it steep for a few minutes.
10. After the rice is cooked, add the sugar, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk to the pot.
11. Mix well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
12. Simmer the rice on low heat for another 5 minutes.
13. In a small pan, heat a tablespoon of ghee and add the cashews, raisins, sliced almonds, and chopped pistachios.
14. Sauté the nuts and dried fruits until they are golden brown.
15. Remove the pot of rice from heat and garnish it with the sautéed nuts and dried fruits.
16. Serve the sweet rice zarda warm and enjoy!

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