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Creamy Shir Berenj (Persian rice pudding) topped with chopped pistachios and cinnamon.

Shir Berenj (Persian Rice Pudding)

A creamy and fragrant Persian rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and rose water. This authentic Iranian dessert is easy to prepare and perfect served warm or chilled.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 53 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 265

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rose water
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom optional
  • 1 tablespoon butter optional
  • Chopped pistachios for garnish
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish
  • Dried edible rose petals optional

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
  2. Combine the rice and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until most of the water is absorbed.
  3. Pour in the milk and reduce the heat to low.
  4. Simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add the sugar and continue cooking until the pudding thickens.
  6. Stir in the rose water, cardamom, and butter, if using.
  7. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  8. Remove from the heat and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  9. Garnish with pistachios, cinnamon, and dried rose petals before serving.