Shir Berenj Recipe: A Traditional Persian Pudding Delight
Shir Berenj Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both sweet and simple, Shir Berenj might just be the perfect treat for you! This traditional Iranian rice pudding is made with a handful of basic ingredients and can easily be whipped up in any kitchen. It’s a delightful mix of rice, milk, sugar, and a hint of rose water, giving it a unique floral aroma that sets it apart from other desserts. Whether you’re new to Persian cuisine or a seasoned pro, Shir Berenj is a heartwarming dish that promises to soothe your soul with every spoonful.
Shir Berenj Recipe
Main Ingredients:
- Milk: 6 cups
- Water: 5 cups
- Basmati Rice: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1.5 cups
- Breakfast Cream: ¼ cup
Flavor Enhancers:
- Butter: 25g
- Cardamom Powder: ½ tsp
- Rose Water (if available): A splash for that signature floral hint typical in Persian desserts.
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by thoroughly washing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Once washed, place the rice in a bowl and cover it with water. Let the rice soak for about 6 hours to soften, which can be done overnight for convenience.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
After the rice has soaked, drain and rinse it again under cold water. Transfer the rinsed rice to a large pot. Add 5 cups of fresh water to the pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer gently. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the rice to cook for about one hour.
Step 4: Add Milk
After the rice has been cooking for an hour and is tender, pour 6 cups of milk into the pot. Stir well to combine with the cooked rice. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Incorporate Sugar
After 30 minutes of adding the milk and stirring the mixture occasionally, add 1.5 cups of sugar to the pot. Stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved into the mixture.
Step 6: Add Butter
Allow the rice and milk mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, then add 25 grams of butter to the pot. Mix well to ensure the butter is fully incorporated.
Step 7: Enhance Flavors
Continue to cook the mixture for another 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will help thicken the mixture and enhance the flavors.
Step 8: Season with Spices
Near the end of the cooking time, sprinkle ½ teaspoon of cardamom powder into the pot. Also, add a splash of rose water for that signature floral fragrance. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
Step 9: Final Cooking Stage
After adding the spices, let the Shir Berenj cook for an additional 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 10: Add Cream
Once the cooking is complete, remove the pot from heat. Stir in ¼ cup of breakfast cream to add richness and creaminess to the dish.
Step 11: Ready to Serve
Transfer the Shir Berenj into your desired serving dish. For a traditional and appealing look, garnish the top with slivered pistachios before serving. This not only adds a nutty flavor but also makes the dish visually attractive.
Step 12: Serving
Allow the Shir Berenj to cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dessert for various occasions.
Recipe Summary
Wash and soak basmati rice for six hours, then rinse and cook it in water on medium heat for an hour. Add milk and stir occasionally, cooking for another 30 minutes before mixing in sugar until dissolved. Ten minutes later, blend in butter and continue cooking for 45 minutes. Season with cardamom powder and a splash of rose water, cooking for an additional 15 minutes. Off the heat, stir in breakfast cream, pour into a dish, garnish with pistachios, and serve.
- Thanks to :
- fatemeh.baram67