Shole Zard
Shole Zard is a fragrant Persian saffron rice pudding infused with nuts and cinnamon, perfect for dessert lovers seeking warm, sweet, and aromatic flavors. Suitable for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir rice into boiling water and cook until well done, approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Add sugar and continue cooking for 15 minutes.
- Stir in butter and saffron, and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Pour into cups and decorate with cinnamon and sliced almonds.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use medium-grain rice, as it will provide the right texture for Shole Zard. If you don’t have saffron, you can substitute with a pinch of turmeric for color, but the flavor will differ. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their flavor significantly. If you prefer a more creamy consistency, consider blending part of the cooked rice to create a smoother base.
Serving Suggestions
Shole Zard is traditionally served in individual cups and can be garnished with cinnamon and sliced almonds for added texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or can be enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Mandel Bread (An Old Family Recipe) for a unique dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shole Zard contains roughly 2978 calories, with 39g protein, 373g carbohydrates, and 150g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and iron (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2618mg per serving (114% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Shole Zard ahead of time?
Yes, Shole Zard can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
What can I use instead of sugar?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using honey or maple syrup as a sweetener. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the liquid content accordingly.
Is Shole Zard gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is inherently gluten-free as it contains only rice and no wheat-based products. It can be a wonderful dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).