During Muharram, traditional recipes hold a special place in every kitchen, offering comfort, warmth, and a deep sense of cultural belonging. Among these, Zarda, also known as Meethe Chawal, is a beloved sweet rice dish that graces many dining tables during this sacred month.
In this blog, we’ll explore an easy, authentic Zarda recipe, including regional variations and tips to enhance your cooking experience using modern Wipro kitchen appliances.
Zarda Recipe
Rice Zarda Recipe Overview
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Mughlai, North Indian
Course: Dessert
Serving: 4–5 people
Calories: Approximately 300–350 per serving
Ingredients for Meethe Chawal Recipe
To prepare an authentic and flavourful rice zarda, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups Sella rice
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 4-5 cloves
- 3-4 green cardamom
- ¼ cup chopped almonds
- ¼ cup raisins
- 10-12 cashews
- 1–2 drops of yellow food colour
- 1½ cups water
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Traditional Zarda (Meethe Chawal)
- Soak and Cook the Rice:
Start by washing the Sella Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice for 2 to 3 hours. In a large, deep-bottomed pot, bring water to a boil, adding saffron strands and soaked rice. Cook until done but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Dry Fruits:
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan. Sauté almonds, raisins, and cashews until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sweet Base:
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee, add cloves and cardamoms, and sauté until aromatic. Add sugar and spread evenly. Pour in ¼ cup of water and let the sugar melt.
- Layer and Cook:
Gently layer cooked rice over the sugar mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for 7–8 minutes, then increase the heat to evaporate excess moisture. Mix in dry fruits gently.
- Final Touch:
Add crumbled khoya or rose water for fragrance. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Zarda
-
Use Sella Rice: For the most authentic meethe chawal, choose Sella Basmati rice. Its long grains remain firm and separate after cooking, giving your zarda recipe the ideal texture.
- Enhance Colour with Edible Food Colours: To make your rice zarda more visually appealing, add a few drops of edible yellow or orange food colour along with saffron.
- Do Not Mix Immediately: After layering the cooked rice over the sugar mixture, avoid stirring right away. Let the sugar melt fully and release its moisture before mixing gently.
- Top with Khoya and Dry Fruits: Add a layer of crumbled khoya and sautéed dry fruits before the final steam. This enhances the richness and festive flavour of your meethe chawal.
- Use Rosewater or Kerwa: A few drops of rose water or kewra can be added for extra fragrance. Add it to the boiling water before putting rice.
Making Festive Cooking Simpler with Wipro Appliances
Preparing an authentic zarda recipe becomes easier and more enjoyable with the right kitchen tools. The Wipro Elato 1000W Mixer and Grinder (4 Jars, Black) helps you grind cardamom, cloves, and chop dry fruits quickly and evenly. The Wipro Vesta 2000 Watt Induction Cooktop offers precise heat control, making it perfect for sautéing dry fruits and cooking meethe chawal without burning or sticking. The Wipro Elato Multi Cooker Kettle 1.5 L is ideal with its dual temperature control and hands-free features to boil rice efficiently.
Wipro Appliances are perfect for festive dishes like rice zarda, as well as for fancy or daily cooking, offering speed, consistency, and convenience.
Conclusion
Zarda is more than a dessert; it symbolizes tradition and festive joy. With the right tools, like Wipro appliances, preparing this dish becomes easier and more enjoyable.
FAQs
1. Can I make Zarda without saffron?
Yes, you can use cardamom and yellow food colour for aroma and appearance. However, saffron adds a distinct richness.
2. What rice is best for Zarda?
Sella rice is ideal for its fragrance and non-sticky texture.
3. How do I avoid mushy rice?
Soak the rice beforehand and cook it almost completely before mixing with sugar and flavours. Use controlled heat, ideally on an induction cooktop.
4. Which Wipro appliance is best for beginners?
The Wipro Elato Multi Cooker Kettle 1.5 L is versatile and beginner-friendly. It’s great for boiling, steeping saffron, and quick concurrent tasks during recipe prep.
5. Is Zarda served hot or cold?
Traditionally, zarda is served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature depending on preference.
6. Can I prepare Zarda in advance?
Yes, you can prepare rice zarda a few hours in advance. Reheat it gently using a non-stick pan or induction cooktop before serving.
