Zesty Zerde Delight

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) short-grain rice 1 cup (200g) short-grain rice
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 cups (950ml) whole milk 4 cups (950ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon rose water 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
• Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish Slivered almonds and pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 30g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the rinsed rice. Cook the rice over medium heat until it is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in a tablespoon of hot water.
4. 4.
   Add the saffron mixture, sugar, milk, rose water, and ground cinnamon to the pot with the cooked rice. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency, about 30-40 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let the Zesty Zerde cool to room temperature.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, transfer the Zesty Zerde to serving bowls or glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
8. 8.
   Before serving, garnish with slivered almonds, pistachios, and a sprinkle of ground cardamom if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To extract the maximum flavor and color from saffron threads, soak them in a tablespoon of hot water for a few minutes before adding them to the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream.
• If you prefer a stronger saffron flavor, you can increase the amount of saffron threads slightly.
• To enhance the nutty flavor, lightly toast the slivered almonds and pistachios before garnishing the Zesty Zerde.

Serving advice

Serve Zesty Zerde chilled for the best experience. It can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing dessert or paired with a cup of Turkish tea for a delightful combination of flavors.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Zesty Zerde, you can sprinkle a pinch of edible rose petals on top of each serving. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the floral aroma of the dessert.