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Sholeh Zard

Iran

Made as a nazr — votive offering — when prayers are answered. Distributed to neighbours and mosque communities.

Persian saffron rice pudding — a fragrant, golden rice pudding scented with saffron, rose water and cardamom, decorated with cinnamon. Made as a votive offering and at Ramadan.

Authentic Iran Sholeh Zard recipe
Prep
10 mins
Cook
60 mins
Difficulty
Easy
Calories
415 kcal
Serves
6
Calories are an estimate based on ingredients used

Ingredients

200gshort-grain rice
1.5Lwater
300gsugar
1 tspsaffron dissolved in hot water
3 tbsprose water
1 tspcardamom
slivered almonds and cinnamonto decorate

Method

1

Cook rice in water until completely broken down, about 30 minutes.

2

Add sugar. Stir. Add saffron, rose water and cardamom.

3

Cook 20 more minutes until thick and golden.

4

Pour into dishes. Decorate with almonds and cinnamon patterns.

Chef's Tip

The rice must completely break down — stirring continuously creates the smooth, porridge-like texture.

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Some recipe photos courtesy of Openverse and Wikimedia Commons contributors, used under Creative Commons licenses.
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