Saroj's Cookbook: Ramadan Dishes: Zarda

Ingredients
2 cups basmati rice washed & soaked for 15 minutes.
2 cups sugar
4 cardamoms whole
4 cloves whole
1" piece cinnamon halved
2 tbsp. raisins
2 tbsp. blanched almonds, slivered
2 tsp. pistachios, slivered
1/2 tsp. saffron strands
1 tbsp. hot milk
1 lemon juice extracted
hot water
2 tbsp. ghee
Method

Drain rice in a colander, keep aside.
Heat ghee in a large heavy or nonstick pan.
Add whole spices, allow to splutter.
Add rice, stir very gently for half a minute.
Add 4 cups hot water, and lemon juice.
Cover, and cook till rice is almost done.
Each grain should be separate, not mushy.
Dissolve saffron in hot milk, but rubbing into it.
Add sugar, raisins, 3/4 almonds and saffron to rice.
Cover securely, and cook till rice is fully done.
Stir gently, and allow any extra moisture to evaporate.
Garnish with remaining almonds, pistas, and serve warm.
Making time: 30 minutes
Makes: 6 servings

Ramadan Dishes

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