Zarda Rice with Mixed Berries and Cherries

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Makes 10, scale as needed.

Ingredients

Amount	Measure	Name
475	g	Fortune Biryani Special Basmati Rice
118	g	Saffron
5	g	Saffron (kesar)
15	mL	Lemon Juice
59	g	Ghee
3	each	Cloves
1	each	Cinnamon Stick
3	each	Green Cardamoms
15	g	Raisins
90	g	Almonds (chopped)
90	g	Cashew Nuts (chopped)
90	g	Mixed Berries
4	each	Water
90	g	Sugar
170	g	Ricotta Cheese
30	mL	Rose Water
170	g	Fresh Cherries

Method

Step 1

Soak the Fortune Biryani Special Basmati Rice in four cups of water for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, drain it thoroughly.

Step 2

Heat 2.5 cups of water in a deep pan over the stove on medium heat. Then, add the saffron and a teaspoon of food colouring and bring it to the boil. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat and add the soaked rice. Leave the rice on the heat until it is 90% cooked, then drain it and rinse with cold water so it doesn’t over cook.

Step 3

In a baking dish, rub some butter over the sides, then spread a portion of the rice at the bottom. Cover the rice evenly with a layer of sugar, fried nuts and a few drops of rose water. Repeat the layering style two more times, then place the dish over medium heat on a stove top for 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 4

Once it has cooked, mix it through and use a mould to secure the rice’s sculpture and garnish with the mixed berries and fresh cherries. You can also scatter some fresh ricotta to add some creaminess to the dish.