Saffron Sweet Rice Zarda Pullao

Indulge in the aromatic and vibrant flavors of Saffron Sweet Rice Zarda Pullao, a celebratory dessert that transforms humble basmati rice into a dish of golden decadence. Infused with fragrant saffron strands, whole spices like cardamom and cinnamon, and a touch of rose water, this traditional South Asian sweet rice recipe is a perfect blend of sweetness and spice. The rice is lightly steamed to perfection and coated in a luscious saffron-sugar mixture, then studded with golden raisins, toasted slivered almonds, and pistachios for a delightful crunch. Whether served as a festive treat or a comforting dessert, Zarda Pullao promises a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Its rich aroma, vibrant color, and luxurious garnish make it an unforgettable addition to any meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Basmati rice
• 4 cups Water
• 1 cup Sugar
• 0.5 cups Whole milk
• 0.5 teaspoons Saffron strands
• 6 pods Cardamom pods
• 4 Cloves
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 4 tablespoons Ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 tablespoons Golden raisins
• 2 tablespoons Slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons Pistachios, chopped
• 2 drops Yellow food coloring (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Rose water (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.

Step 2

In a small bowl, soak the saffron strands in warm milk and set aside to release their color and flavor.

Step 3

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the soaked and drained rice, along with 4 cardamom pods, 2 cloves, and a pinch of salt. Cook the rice until it is about 70% cooked (still firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

Step 4

Melt the ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the remaining cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Fry for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 5

Add the sugar to the pan, followed by the saffron-infused milk and 2 drops of yellow food coloring (if using). Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.

Step 6

Gently fold in the partially cooked rice into the pan, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the saffron-sugar mixture. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, allowing the rice to steam and absorb the flavors.

Step 7

In a small skillet, lightly toast the raisins, slivered almonds, and chopped pistachios in 1 tablespoon of ghee until golden brown.

Step 8

Uncover the rice and fluff it gently with a fork. Sprinkle the toasted nuts and raisins on top, along with rose water (if using) for added fragrance.

Step 9

Serve warm, garnished with more chopped nuts if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1752.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2266.1

Total Fat 100.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 160.0mg	0%
Sodium 108.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 321.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.4g	0%
Total Sugars 222.2g
Protein 31.8g	0%

Vitamin D 53.7IU	0%
Calcium 476.1mg	0%
Iron 9.3mg	0%
Potassium 1145.0mg	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: 38.9%

Protein: 5.5%

Carbs: 55.6%