Imagine a dessert so enchanting that it transports you straight to the lavish kitchens of Indian maharajas - that's exactly what Zarda Sweet Rice promises! This golden-hued, aromatic rice dish isn't just a recipe; it's a celebration of flavor, tradition, and culinary artistry. Packed with rich ghee, crunchy nuts, sweet raisins, and the luxurious touch of saffron, this Instant Pot creation will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary sensory experience that will leave your family and guests absolutely spellbound.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, pistachios)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/2 tsp saffron strands
- 1 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a small bowl, soak the saffron strands in 1/4 cup of warm milk for about 10 minutes. This will help release the color and flavor of the saffron.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the 'Sauté' mode. Add the ghee and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the chopped nuts (cashews and pistachios) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- Add the raisins to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until they puff up. Be careful not to burn the nuts and raisins.
- Once the nuts and raisins are ready, add the drained basmati rice to the pot and gently stir to coat the rice with the ghee and mix with the nuts and raisins.
- Pour in 4 cups of water and add the sugar, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk (including the saffron strands). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the steam release handle is in the sealing position. Set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode for 6 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the steam release handle to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and gently fluff the Zarda Sweet Rice with a fork to separate the grains. Be careful not to break the rice. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Zarda Sweet Rice warm, garnished with additional chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cardamom powder if desired. Enjoy this sweet and fragrant dish as a dessert or a festive treat!
Tips
- • Always rinse your basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. • Soak saffron in warm milk to maximize its color and flavor release. • Toast nuts and raisins carefully to enhance their natural sweetness without burning. • Use high-quality ghee for an authentic, rich taste. • Allow natural pressure release to ensure perfectly cooked, fluffy rice. • For extra richness, you can replace some water with milk. • Garnish with additional nuts just before serving for a beautiful presentation. • If you prefer less sweetness, adjust sugar quantity to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
