Elevate your Eid al-Adha celebrations with the vibrant and aromatic sweetness of Zarda, a traditional dessert that adds a delightful touch to the festive feast.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is a time of joyous celebration and feasting for Muslims around the world. Amidst the prayers and gatherings with family and friends, indulging in delicious sweets is an essential part of the festivities. One such traditional sweet dish that holds a special place during Eid al-Adha is Zarda. With its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors, Zarda adds a touch of sweetness to the occasion, symbolizing the spirit of abundance and gratitude. Let's explore the recipe for making this delightful dessert at home to elevate your Eid celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 1 and 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of mixed nuts
- A handful of raisins
- A pinch of orange food color
- Rose water or kewra water
Instructions:
1. Wash the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water becomes clear, then soak it in water for approximately 30 minutes before draining and setting it aside.
2. In a large pot, bring 1 and 1/2 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and cook until it is 70-80% done.
3. In a separate pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped nuts and raisins and sauté until the nuts turn golden brown and the raisins plump up.
4. In the same pan with the remaining ghee, add the sugar and saffron threads. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and forms a thick syrup.
5. Add the cooked rice to the syrup and mix well until the rice is evenly coated with the sugar syrup.
6. Sprinkle the cardamom powder over the rice and mix gently to combine.
7. If desired, add a pinch of orange food color to give the Zarda its characteristic vibrant hue.
8. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and let the Zarda cook on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Once done, remove the Zarda from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, fluff it up with a fork and garnish with the sautéed nuts and raisins.
10. For added fragrance, sprinkle a few drops of rose water or kewra water over the Zarda before serving.
Serve the warm and fragrant Zarda as a sweet finale to your Eid al-Adha feast, delighting your loved ones with its rich flavors and vibrant colors. This traditional dessert is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and joy, bringing an extra touch of sweetness to your celebrations. Enjoy the spirit of Eid with this delicious homemade treat!
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