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
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½ cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
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4 cups whole milk (or substitute part with cream for richness; almond milk works too)
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½ cup sugar (adjust to taste; honey can be used)
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¼ tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
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½ tsp ground cardamom (or 4–5 whole pods, lightly crushed)
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1 tsp rose water (optional, for floral depth)
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¼ cup chopped pistachios (plus extra for garnish)
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2 tbsp golden raisins or dried apricots, chopped (optional)
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Prep the rice
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Rinse rice until water runs clear.
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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).
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Cook the pudding
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Add milk to the saucepan with rice. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.
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Simmer for 25–30 minutes until rice is soft and mixture thickens.
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Flavor the pudding
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Stir in sugar, saffron milk, cardamom, and raisins/apricots (if using).
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Continue cooking for 5–10 minutes until creamy.
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Finish
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Remove from heat, stir in rose water (if using).
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Let cool slightly — pudding will thicken as it sits.
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Serve
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Spoon into bowls (warm or chilled).
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Garnish with pistachios and extra saffron threads.
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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