Persian Saffron Rice Pudding (Sholeh Zard)

For this recipe you need:
• Rice 1 cup / 200 gr
• Sugar ½ cup / 100 gr
• Butter 20 gr
• Slivered almond ½ cup / 60 gr – plus some for garnishing
• Water 8 cups
• Rose water 1 tbs
• Ground Saffron* 1/8 tsp
• Cinnamon Stick 1
• Cardamon pod 1
• Salt a pinch
• Cinnamon powder 1 tbs for garnishing
• Slivered pistachio 1 tbs for garnishing

*Dissolved in 2 tbs cold water and leave for at least half an hour.

Servings: 8-10

Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice a couple times and then combine with 8 cups of water in a medium to large size pot or saucepan. Put over high heat and bring to a boil, stir occasionally.
2. Once it starts boiling reduce the heat to medium low and add the cardamon pod and cinnamon stick. Let it simmer until the rice is softened and the mixture is reasonably thick, about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Take out and discard the cardamon pod and cinnamon stick.
4. Add the salt, sugar, butter and slivered almonds into the rice and mix well. Let it simmer over low heat, about 20 min. Watch and stir more frequently this time as the mixture is thickening and could stick to the bottom easily.
5. Add the brewed saffron and rose water, and continue to simmer for another 10 min. After the 10 min the mixture should have a creamy texture, but if there is excess liquid, continue to cook for another 5 min. Keep in mind that the pudding will harden as it cools down.
6. Place the pudding in individual serving cups and garnish with slivered almonds & pistachios, and cinnamon powder. Serve right away or cover the cups and keep them in the fridge for few hours and then serve chilled.

Notes:
• We are looking for a type of rice that is capable of absorbing enough water to turn into a mushy form.
• Do not cover the pot during the process of cooking.
• After step 3 blend the mixture with few pulses of an immersion blender to achieve a creamier texture.
• The amount of sugar called in this recipe gives you a low to medium sweetness. You can adjust it to your taste.