Sholezard (Persian-style rice pudding)
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s comforting, aromatic, and beautifully nourishing, Sholezard deserves a place in your kitchen. This Persian rice pudding, transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant golden treat infused with rose water, and a delicate blend of spices known as advieh.
Unlike most puddings, sholezard is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a perfect option for those with sensitivities or anyone seeking a lighter, anti-inflammatory dessert. When made with coconut milk instead of dairy, it becomes even creamier, with a subtle tropical note that complements the Middle Eastern flavors beautifully.
The Story Behind Sholezard - In Persian culture, sholezard holds a special place—it’s often prepared for festive gatherings, offered during religious celebrations, or shared to mark happy occasions. The name comes from “zard,” meaning yellow in Farsi, inspired by its vibrant golden color from saffron and turmeric. This sunny hue symbolizes prosperity, joy, and divine light—making it both food and poetry in one bowl.
Traditionally, sholezard is made with white rice, sugar, and butter. In this version, we keep the authenticity but make it nourishing for modern wellness goals:
Arborio rice creates the perfect creamy texture without gluten.
Full-fat coconut milk replaces dairy, offering healthy fats and a luscious consistency.
Maple syrup replaces refined sugar, providing a gentle sweetness and trace minerals.
Turmeric and/or saffron infuse anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power.
Rose water and advieh—a Persian spice blend featuring cinnamon, cardamom, and sometimes nutmeg—add depth, warmth, and digestive support.
Dates lend natural sweetness, fiber, and caramel undertones.
Why Your Body Will Love It? This dessert isn’t just indulgent—it’s functional nourishment. The combination of spices, healthy fats, and slow-digesting carbs supports balanced blood sugar and satisfies sweet cravings without the crash. Turmeric and saffron work synergistically to calm inflammation, improve mood, and support hormonal balance—especially valuable for women’s health.
Sholezard reminds us that desserts can be both meaningful and nourishing. When made with mindful ingredients, it becomes more than a treat—it’s a celebration of culture, health, and intention. Whether you enjoy it as a warm evening comfort or a chilled mid-day delight, this golden rice pudding will bring a touch of Persian magic and wellness to your table.
RECIPE
Ingredients
1 cup arborio rice
150 ml full-fat coconut milk
4 cups water
100 ml maple syrup
1 Tbsp rose water
Spices: ¼ tsp salt, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp advieh (recipe here), some saffron if you have any.
100 g dates, finely chopped
Instructions
Rinse the rice thoroughly.
Finely chop the dates.
In a large pot, combine all the ingredients and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
Serve warm, topped with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and a light dusting of advieh.
As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.
Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation.
In good health,
Ioana