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