Description
Cardamom Saffron Rice Pudding with Pistachios is a traditional Indian and Middle Eastern-inspired dessert known for its rich flavors and creamy texture. The pudding is made by simmering rice in whole milk (or cream), combined with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and a touch of rose water, then garnished with pistachios. The result is a luxurious, velvety dessert that balances sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
½ cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
4 cups whole milk (or substitute part with cream for richness; almond milk works too)
½ cup sugar (adjust to taste; honey can be used)
¼ tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
½ tsp ground cardamom (or 4–5 whole pods, lightly crushed)
1 tsp rose water (optional, for floral depth)
¼ cup chopped pistachios (plus extra for garnish)
2 tbsp golden raisins or dried apricots, chopped (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prep the rice
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
In a saucepan, combine rice with 1 cup water and a pinch of salt. Cook until water is absorbed and rice is partially tender (about 10 minutes).
Cook the pudding
Add milk to the saucepan with rice. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Simmer for 25–30 minutes until rice is soft and mixture thickens.
Flavor the pudding
Stir in sugar, saffron milk, cardamom, and raisins/apricots (if using).
Continue cooking for 5–10 minutes until creamy.
Finish
Remove from heat, stir in rose water (if using).
Let cool slightly — pudding will thicken as it sits.
Serve
Spoon into bowls (warm or chilled).
Garnish with pistachios and extra saffron threads.
Notes
For a luxurious touch, garnish with extra crushed pistachios and a few strands of saffron. Serve warm or chilled, and pair with a cup of spiced chai for a cozy, aromatic dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop / Simmering
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Indian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~200g)
- Calories: ~280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Cardamom Rice Pudding, Saffron Rice Pudding, Pistachio Rice Pudding, Creamy Rice Pudding, Indian Rice Pudding, Saffron Dessert, Cardamom Dessert