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Shole Zard Recipe: Traditional Persian Saffron Rice Pudding

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Shole Zard, a traditional Persian saffron rice pudding, is a luxurious and fragrant dessert that's both comforting and indulgent. With its golden color from saffron and its sweet, delicate flavor, this pudding is often served during special occasions like weddings or celebrations. The combination of creamy rice, rose water, and saffron creates a dessert that’s rich in flavor and history. Whether served warm or chilled, Shole Zard is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves Persian desserts!

Shole Zard Recipe: Traditional Persian Saffron Rice Pudding



Key Information

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 bowl per person


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 10mg

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian
  • Gluten-free
  • Nut-free

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup (200g) short-grain rice (such as Arborio or Persian rice)
  • 5 cups (1.2L) water
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 2 tablespoons hot water (for saffron infusion)
  • 1 cup (200g) sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rose water
  • 1 tablespoon cardamom powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1/4 cup (30g) slivered almonds, toasted (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons pistachios, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1-2 tablespoons saffron water (for garnish, optional)

Detailed Method of Preparation

  1. Prepare the Rice:
    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a large pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is completely softened and begins to break apart. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  2. Infuse the Saffron:
    While the rice is cooking, grind the saffron threads into a powder using a mortar and pestle or a small spice grinder. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water to the saffron and let it steep for about 10 minutes. This step helps release the vibrant color and flavor of the saffron.

  3. Cook the Pudding:
    Once the rice has softened, stir in the sugar, rose water, cardamom powder, and vanilla extract. Add the saffron water and continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

  4. Add Butter and Milk:
    Stir in the butter and milk, which will add richness and creaminess to the pudding. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring until the pudding is smooth and thickened, about 10-15 minutes. The texture should be creamy but not too thick. If the pudding gets too thick, you can add a little more water or milk to adjust the consistency.

  5. Cool and Garnish:
    Remove from heat and let the pudding cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer it into individual serving bowls or one large dish. Let it cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and to chill before serving.

  6. Garnish and Serve:
    Before serving, garnish the Shole Zard with toasted slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, and a dusting of ground cinnamon. You can also drizzle a little saffron water over the top for an extra touch of color and fragrance. Serve chilled or at room temperature.


Tips for Culinary Success

  • Rice Texture: To achieve the smooth, creamy texture of Shole Zard, make sure the rice is well-cooked and soft before adding sugar and spices. The rice should break apart easily and dissolve into the pudding.
  • Saffron Quality: Always use high-quality saffron for the best flavor and color. Fresh saffron gives the pudding its signature golden hue and aromatic fragrance.
  • Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar slightly.
  • Consistency: If you prefer a thicker pudding, continue cooking it until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thinner texture, you can add more milk or water.
  • Chilling: While Shole Zard can be served warm, it's traditionally chilled to allow the flavors to develop and the pudding to set. Refrigerating for a few hours enhances the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Shole Zard without saffron?
Saffron is the key ingredient in Shole Zard, giving it its distinctive flavor and color. While you can make a version without saffron, it won’t have the same taste or look. You can try using turmeric as a substitute for color, though the flavor will be quite different.

2. Can I use a rice cooker to make Shole Zard?
Yes, you can cook the rice in a rice cooker, but you will still need to add the other ingredients on the stovetop to achieve the pudding-like consistency.

3. Can I make Shole Zard ahead of time?
Absolutely! Shole Zard is even better when made a day in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to garnish it just before serving.

4. Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the milk?
Yes, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free version of Shole Zard.

5. How can I adjust the sweetness of Shole Zard?
You can reduce or increase the sugar depending on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet pudding, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and taste before adding more.

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