Persian Apricot Rice Pudding

Indulge in the exotic flavors of Persian Apricot Rice Pudding, a luxurious dessert that combines creamy basmati rice with a fragrant blend of saffron, rose water, and cardamom. This dish is sweetened with sugar and enriched by tender bites of finely chopped dried apricots, creating a beautifully layered flavor profile. The pudding is simmered to a silky consistency and finished with optional garnishes of chopped pistachios and dried rose petals for a stunning visual and textural contrast. Perfect served warm or chilled, this Persian-inspired treat is an ideal way to elevate your dessert repertoire with its combination of traditional Middle Eastern ingredients and comforting textures. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or savoring a quiet moment, this aromatic rice pudding is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 0.5 cups White rice (preferably basmati)
• 1.5 cups Water
• 3 cups Milk (whole or 2%)
• 0.5 cups Sugar
• 0.5 cups Dried apricots, finely chopped
• 0.25 teaspoons Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Warm water (for steeping saffron)
• 2 pods Cardamom pods, crushed
• 1 teaspoons Rose water
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon Dried rose petals (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 1.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.

Step 3

3. Meanwhile, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes to release its color and aroma.

Step 4

4. Once the rice is cooked, add the milk, sugar, chopped apricots, crushed cardamom pods, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.

Step 5

5. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6

6. Stir in the saffron water and rose water during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 7

7. Remove the crushed cardamom pods before serving.

Step 8

8. Spoon the rice pudding into serving bowls and let it cool slightly. It can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Step 9

9. Garnish with chopped pistachios and dried rose petals for an elegant finish, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1423.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1162.0

Total Fat 21.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 60.0mg	0%
Sodium 903.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 216.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.2g	0%
Total Sugars 178.9g
Protein 31.7g	0%

Vitamin D 300IU	0%
Calcium 970.2mg	0%
Iron 2.0mg	0%
Potassium 2190.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 16.5%

Protein: 10.7%

Carbs: 72.8%