Sweet Rice
Aromatic basmati rice cooked with sugar, ghee, and fragrant spices like saffron and cardamom. This classic North Indian dessert, often called Zarda, is a festive treat studded with nuts and raisins.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Rice and Saffron
- b.Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water is clear. This removes excess starch.
- c.Soak the rinsed rice in ample water for 30 minutes. This helps the grains elongate.
- d.In a small bowl, combine the saffron strands with 2 tablespoons of warm milk. Set aside to infuse.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Par-boil the Rice
- b.In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- c.Drain the soaked rice completely. Add it to the boiling water along with 2 cloves and 2 green cardamom pods.
- d.Cook for 6-8 minutes until the rice is 80% cooked. The grains should be firm and break when pressed, but still have a slight white core.
- e.Immediately drain the rice in a colander to stop the cooking process. Gently spread it on a plate to cool slightly and prevent clumping.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry Nuts and Prepare Syrup
- b.Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or wide pan over medium heat.
- c.Add the almonds and cashews, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn light golden.
- d.Add the raisins and fry for another 30 seconds until they plump up. Remove the nuts and raisins with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- e.In the same pot, add the sugar, 1/2 cup of water, the remaining 2 cloves and 2 cardamom pods, and the pinch of yellow food color (if using).
- f.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly. It should feel sticky between your fingers.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Cook on 'Dum'
- b.Carefully add the par-boiled rice to the sugar syrup. Gently fold it in with a spatula, ensuring you don't break the delicate rice grains.
- c.Drizzle the saffron-infused milk, the remaining 2 tablespoons of ghee, and the optional rose water over the rice.
- d.Sprinkle half of the fried nuts and raisins on top.
- e.Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. For a better seal, you can wrap the lid's edge with a clean kitchen towel.
- f.Reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting and let it cook on 'dum' (steam) for 10-12 minutes. All the syrup should be absorbed by the rice.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat and let the sweet rice rest, covered, for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the grains to firm up.
- c.Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.
- d.Garnish with the remaining fried nuts and raisins before serving warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent the sugar syrup from scorching at the bottom.
- 2Do not overcook the rice initially. It must be firm, as it will cook further in the syrup. Overcooked rice will turn mushy.
- 3Be extremely gentle when mixing the rice with the syrup to maintain the integrity of the long grains.
- 4For a richer flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of crumbled khoya (mawa) along with the nuts.
- 5Ensure the lid is tightly sealed during the 'dum' cooking process to trap the steam and cook the rice perfectly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruity Zarda
Add 1/4 cup of tutti-frutti (candied fruit peel) or small chunks of canned pineapple along with the nuts and raisins for a fruity twist.
With Khoya/MawaWith Khoya/Mawa
For a richer, creamier texture, crumble 1/4 cup of unsweetened khoya (dried milk solids) over the rice before the 'dum' cooking stage.
Nut Free VersionNut-Free Version
Omit the almonds and cashews. You can add 2 tablespoons of melon seeds (magaz) or simply use more raisins.
Color VariationColor Variation
Instead of yellow, use a pinch of orange or green food color to match different festive themes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Instant Energy Source
The simple carbohydrates from rice and sugar provide a quick and efficient source of energy, making this a good dessert after a meal.
Mood-Lifting Properties
Saffron, a key ingredient, contains compounds like crocin and safranal that are known to have antidepressant effects and can help elevate your mood.
Source of Healthy Fats
Ghee is a source of healthy saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins, while nuts like almonds and cashews provide beneficial monounsaturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Sweet Rice contains approximately 480-550 calories, primarily from the rice, sugar, and ghee. The exact count can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.