Recipe: Meetha Chawal

A fragrant sweet-rice preparation made with basmati rice, ghee, sugar, saffron and aromatic spices, Meetha Chawal is a delightful way to add a touch of sweetness and warmth to any festive spread.

Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 25 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 tbsp ghee
• 4 green cardamoms
• 3-4 cloves
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 10-12 saffron strands
• 2 tbsp cashews
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 2 tbsp chopped almonds

Get the ingredients here

Method

1. Rinse and soak the rice for 20 minutes, then drain.
2. Cook the rice until about 80% done. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add cardamom, cloves and cinnamon and sauté briefly.
4. Add the cooked rice and sugar. Mix gently.
5. Add saffron, cover and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, until the sugar melts and the rice is completely cooked.
6. Lightly roast the cashews, raisins and almonds in a little ghee and add to the rice.
7. Fluff gently and serve warm.

Tip: Cook the rice until just tender before adding the sugar to help keep the grains separate.