Zarda Pulao is a traditional South Asian rice dish that is known for its beautiful yellow color and sweet taste. It is typically served on special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings, festivals, and other important events. The name "Zarda" is derived from the Urdu/Hindi word for yellow, which is the prominent color of the dish
Ingredients
.2 cups basmati rice
.4 cups water
.1 cup sugar
.1/4 cup ghee or butter
.1/4 cup almonds, sliced
.1/4 cup pistachios, sliced
.1/4 cup raisins
.2-3 green cardamom pods
.1 cinnamon stick
.1 teaspoon yellow food coloring
.1 teaspoon kewra water (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the rice is about 80% cooked.
Drain the rice and set it aside.
In a separate pan, heat ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and pistachios and fry until they are lightly browned. Remove the nuts from the pan and set them aside.
In the same pan, add the raisins and fry until they are plump. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same pan, add the green cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and add the sugar. Cook until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Add the yellow food coloring and kewra water (optional) to the sugar mixture and stir well.
Add the partially cooked rice to the sugar mixture and stir gently to combine. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for another 10-15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
Once the rice is fully cooked, add the fried nuts and raisins to the pot and mix well.
Garnish with additional sliced nuts and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious Zarda Pulao
Recipe by : Aziz Hussain
Tags:
dessert