Sholezard - Iranian rice with saffron and rose water

Name: Sholezard - Iranian rice with saffron and rose water - Simona L.
Ingredients: 1 cup (200 ml) of rice; 5; 6 cups of water; 8 tablespoons of sugar; 1/4 teaspoon of saffron; 1/4; 1/3 cup of rose water; 2 tablespoons of almonds or pistachios; 1 tablespoon of cinnamon

Dessert - Sholezard - Iranian rice with saffron and rose water by Simona L. - Recipia

Sholezard - Iranian rice with saffron and rose water If you were to describe a dessert from the Middle East, Sholezard would certainly be among the top choices. With its unmistakable fragrance of rose water and saffron, it will take you on a culinary journey filled with delicate flavors and enticing tastes. This traditional recipe not only combines simple ingredients but also offers an unforgettable experience. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes Number of servings: 4-6 Ingredients: 1 cup (200 ml) rice (preferably long-grain rice, such as basmati) 5-6 cups water 8 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust to taste) 1/4 teaspoon saffron (high quality) 1/4 - 1/3 cup rose water 2 tablespoons almonds or pistachios (optional, for decoration) 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for a more intense flavor) A bit of history Sholezard is a traditional dessert, popular in various cultures of the Middle East. It has often been served on special occasions and holidays, serving to bring joy and conviviality. Its distinct aroma, given by saffron and rose water, evokes unforgettable memories and delighted guests. Step by step: Preparing Sholezard 1. Washing the rice Start by washing the rice. It is essential to remove the starch to prevent the rice from becoming sticky. Rinse it in three waters until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. 2. Boiling the rice In a large pot, add the washed rice and 5-6 cups of water. Also, add 8 tablespoons of sugar. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves. Then, place the pot over high heat. 3. Cooking the rice When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice that the water is evaporating too quickly, add a little hot water. 4. Adding the aromatic ingredients After 30 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and add the saffron, crushed between your fingers, the remaining sugar, and the rose water. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly. 5. Finishing the preparation Put the pot back on low heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring often. The goal is to achieve a consistency similar to polenta, without the rice becoming mushy. 6. Serving Once Sholezard is ready, take it off the heat and pour it into individual bowls. Let it cool slightly, then decorate with roasted almonds or pistachios and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serving suggestions Sholezard is usually served at room temperature or slightly chilled. You can accompany this dessert with mint tea or flavored black tea, which will perfectly complement the sweet aroma of the dessert. Tips and variations If you like to experiment, you can also add other ingredients, such as raisins or dates, for added texture. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. Those who prefer a slightly tart note can add a little lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Calories and nutritional benefits This recipe has approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar and almonds used. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, and saffron is not only a luxury spice but also an ingredient with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Rose water has calming properties and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use short-grain rice? Although it is recommended to use long-grain rice, you can experiment with short-grain rice, but the consistency will be different. 2. How can I prevent the rice from sticking? Make sure to wash the rice well and stir frequently during boiling. Also, adding enough water is essential. 3. What is the best rose water? Choose 100% pure rose water without additives. Typically, higher quality products have a more intense fragrance and a more pleasant aroma. 4. How can I store Sholezard? It keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or serve it cold. Sholezard is not just a dessert; it is an experience that blends tradition with innovation. It may quickly become your favorite, bringing a touch of magic to every meal. So get ready to enjoy a delicious dessert that will delight your senses!

Sholezard - Iranian rice with saffron and rose water

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