Shahi Zarda is a traditional Pakistani and Indian sweet rice dish that is usually served on special occasions like weddings, religious festivals, and family gatherings. It is made by cooking rice with sugar, saffron, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, then garnished with nuts and raisins.
To make shahi zarda, the rice is first soaked in water for a few hours, then drained and cooked in boiling water until tender. Meanwhile, a sugar syrup is prepared by boiling sugar with water and the spices, then simmering until thick and syrupy. The cooked rice is then mixed with the sugar syrup and allowed to cook over low heat until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is coated in a sweet, fragrant glaze.
Finally, the shahi zarda is garnished with fried nuts and raisins, usually almonds, pistachios, and cashews. The dish is served warm or at room temperature and can be enjoyed as a dessert or as a sweet accompaniment to a main meal.
