Indian Cardamom Infused Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 pods cardamom, crushed
• 1 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 1 teaspoon saffron strands, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm milk

Method

1. 01
   Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. 02
   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the milk and crushed cardamom pods. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. 03
   Add the rinsed rice to the boiling milk. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens, about 25-30 minutes.
4. 04
   Stir in the sugar, raisins, and salt. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the pudding reaches your desired consistency.
5. 05
   Remove from heat and stir in the saffron milk and half of the toasted almonds.
6. 06
   Transfer the pudding to serving bowls, garnish with the remaining toasted almonds, and serve warm or chilled.