Crimean Tatar Meghli

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Meghli, we have incorporated saffron, a key ingredient in Crimean Tatar cuisine, to infuse the dish with its distinct flavor and aroma. Additionally, we have used a blend of warm spices commonly found in Crimean Tatar cuisine to enhance the overall taste profile of the dessert. We alse have the original recipe for Meghli, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) rice 1 cup (200g) rice
• 4 cups (950ml) milk 4 cups (950ml) milk
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads 1 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 30g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, saffron threads, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.
3. 3.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Meghli cool for a few minutes.
6. 6.
   Divide the Meghli into serving bowls or cups.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the chopped almonds and pistachios over the top of each serving.
8. 8.
   Allow the Meghli to cool completely before serving. It can also be refrigerated for a few hours to chill.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To extract the maximum flavor and color from saffron threads, soak them in a tablespoon of warm milk for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
• If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts for the topping, such as walnuts or cashews.
• Serve the Meghli chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.
• To add an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some honey or rose syrup over the Meghli before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Crimean Tatar Meghli in individual bowls or cups, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped almonds and pistachios. For an elegant presentation, you can also top each serving with a dusting of ground cinnamon or a few strands of saffron.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal of the Crimean Tatar Meghli, consider serving it in transparent glass bowls or cups. The vibrant yellow color of the saffron-infused rice pudding, combined with the contrasting green and brown hues of the chopped pistachios and almonds, will create an eye-catching dessert that is sure to impress your guests.