Sholeh Zard (Persian Saffron Rice Pudding) with Royal® Chef’s Secret™ Golden Sella Basmati Rice
1 hour 10 minutes
Persian
Sholeh Zard is a traditional Persian saffron rice pudding made with Royal® Chef's Secret™ Golden Sella Basmati Rice, slow-cooked until soft and creamy, then sweetened and perfumed with golden saffron and fragrant rose water. Its vibrant yellow hue and delicate floral aroma make it as beautiful as it is comforting, whether served warm right off the stove or chilled for a refreshing finish. A simple, elegant dessert that turns a handful of pantry staples into something truly special.
Ingredients
For the rice pudding
- 1 cup Royal® Chef’s Secret™ Golden Sella Basmati Rice
- 8 cups water
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup rose water
- ¼ tsp ground saffron (dissolved in 2 tbsp warm water)
- ¼ cup slivered almonds (optional)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (optional)
For garnish
- Slivered pistachios
- Slivered almonds
Preparation
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the Royal® Chef’s Secret™ Golden Sella Basmati Rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 10-15 mins.
- In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is very soft and starts to break apart (about 30-40 minutes).
- Once the rice is soft and the mixture has thickened slightly, add the sugar and stir well until dissolved.
- Stir in the dissolved saffron and continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently, for another 15-20 minutes.
- Add the rose water and slivered almonds (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine. If desired, stir in the unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
- Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pudding reaches a thick, creamy consistency. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Serve:
- Pour the Sholeh Zard into individual serving bowls or a large dish.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then garnish with ground cinnamon, slivered pistachios, and slivered almonds.
Chill (Optional):
- Sholeh Zard can be served warm or chilled. If serving chilled, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Note: The vibrant yellow color and floral aroma of Sholeh Zard come from the saffron and rose water, making it a fragrant and visually stunning dessert.
