How to Make Creamy Saffron Pudding (Shole Zard)

What is Saffron Pudding (Shole Zard)?

Saffron pudding is a popular Persian dessert made from rice, sugar, saffron, rosewater, and a variety of other ingredients. It’s often served chilled and is known for its vibrant yellow color, which comes from the saffron. The dish is creamy and sweet, with delicate floral notes from the rosewater and a luxurious richness from the addition of butter and oil.

The beauty of Shole Zard lies in its simplicity, making it a go-to dessert for many. Whether it’s for a family meal or a special occasion, it brings a taste of Persian tradition right to your table.

To make the best saffron pudding, you’ll need high-quality saffron —buy saffron from trusted sources to elevate your recipe and ensure the richest, most aromatic flavor in every bite!

Tips for Best Results

• Rice: Use short-grain rice for a creamier texture. If using long-grain rice, soak it for longer (12-24 hours).
• Saffron: Always grind the saffron and steep it in hot water to release its color and aroma fully.
• Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference, but the traditional recipe tends to be quite sweet.

While saffron pudding is a delightful treat, if you're also a fan of savory dishes, you might enjoy learning how to make fragrant saffron rice, another classic Persian dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals!

How to Make Saffron Pudding: Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make delicious saffron pudding (Shole Zard) at home. With easy-to-follow instructions, you'll create a creamy, aromatic Persian dessert that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice well and soaking it for about 12-24 hours, depending on the type of rice you use. Once soaked, drain the rice and place it in a large saucepan with 3 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, but avoid stirring it at this stage.

Once the rice absorbs the water and softens, reduce the heat to low and start stirring gently to break up the grains. Make sure not to add more water, as the rice should absorb the liquid during cooking.

Step 2: Adding Sugar

Once the rice is fully cooked and softened, it’s time to add the sugar. Stir well and continue cooking for about 15 minutes on low heat. The rice will begin to thicken, so ensure it’s stirred regularly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Infusing the Saffron

While the rice is cooking, grind the saffron threads and steep them in a small amount of hot water (around 2 tablespoons). Once the saffron has steeped, add it to the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure the rice takes on the rich golden hue that saffron is known for.

Step 4: Adding Rosewater and Almonds

To elevate the flavor, soak the slivered almonds in rosewater for about 10 minutes. Add both the soaked almonds and the rosewater to the cooking pudding mixture. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Adding Butter and Oil

Once the pudding reaches a thick consistency, add the softened butter and a tablespoon of oil. This will add richness and a silky texture to the pudding. Stir until the butter is fully melted, and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Let It Set and Serve

Once everything is well mixed and the pudding has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly before transferring it to serving bowls. Decorate with cinnamon, slivered pistachios, and almonds for a decorative and flavorful finish.

Step 7: Chill and Enjoy!

For the best experience, let the saffron pudding cool down and refrigerate for several hours. Serve it chilled, and enjoy the sweet, aromatic, and comforting flavors of this Persian dessert.

If you’re a fan of saffron’s unique flavor, don’t miss out on trying our delicious saffron pasta recipe — a savory dish that pairs perfectly with the sweet and aromatic notes of saffron pudding!

Why You Should Try Saffron Pudding (Shole Zard)

Curious about why saffron pudding (Shole Zard) is a must-try dessert? From its rich flavor to its cultural significance, here are some compelling reasons to add this delicious Persian treat to your must-make list!

• Simple to Make: With easy-to-find ingredients, making saffron pudding is straightforward and doesn’t require any specialized skills.
• Aromatic and Flavorful: The combination of saffron and rosewater gives Shole Zard a unique floral fragrance that makes it a perfect end to any meal.
• Nutrient-Rich: With ingredients like rice, saffron, and almonds, saffron pudding is a rich source of energy and can be a comforting dish after a long day.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add other garnishes like pistachios or cinnamon to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Saffron pudding (Shole Zard) is not just a dessert, it’s a part of Persian culture and tradition. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this dish never fails to impress. The creamy texture, combined with the delicate fragrance of saffron and rosewater, makes each spoonful a delight.