Afghan Rice Pudding,or Sheer Yakh or Shir Berenj, is a creamy dessert with a unique blend of rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom, often served at special occasions.

Afghan Rice Pudding, or Sheer Yakh, is a cherished dessert in Afghan cuisine known for its creamy texture and aromatic flavors. It stands out for its unique blend of ingredients and traditional cooking method. The dish's essence lies in the harmonious mix of rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom, cooked slowly to blend the flavors. Cardamom gives it a distinctive aroma and taste, setting it apart from other rice puddings. This dessert is not just delicious but also culturally significant, often served at special occasions, symbolizing warmth and tradition. Its creamy texture and sweetness make it a favorite, offering a comforting end to a meal.

Ingredients:

1- 4 cups of milk

2- 1/2 cup of rice flour

3- 1/2 cup of sugar

4- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom

5- 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional)

6- A few strands of saffron (optional)

7- Slivered almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1- In a large saucepan, heat the milk on medium heat until it comes to a boil.

2- In a separate bowl, mix the rice flour and sugar together.

3- Slowly add the rice flour mixture to the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4- Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, until it thickens and becomes creamy.

5- Add the cardamom, rose water, and saffron to the mixture and stir well.

6- Remove from heat and let the Firnee cool to room temperature.

7- Once cooled, pour the Firnee into individual serving bowls and refrigerate for a few hours.

8- When ready to serve, garnish each bowl with slivered almonds.

Notes:

1- Be sure to stir the mixture constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

2- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.

3- You can substitute the rice flour with cornstarch if you prefer a smoother texture.

4- Rose water and saffron are optional but add a unique flavor to the Firnee.

Nutrition Facts:

The nutritional value of Firnee varies depending on the recipe and serving size. On average, one serving of Firnee (approximately 1/2 cup) contains around 160 calories, 7 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein. It also provides calcium and vitamin D from the milk. However, it is important to consume Firnee in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie content.

Here are the nutrition facts for the ingredients used in Firnee, based on standard quantities:

1. 4 cups of milk:

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 32g

benefits: Milk is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also provides protein for muscle growth and repair.

2. 1/2 cup of rice flour:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 72g
• Protein: 4g

benefits: Rice flour is gluten-free and easy to digest. It provides carbohydrates for energy and is a good source of B vitamins.

3. 1/2 cup of sugar:

• Calories: 387
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 100g
• Protein: 0g

benefits: While sugar provides sweetness, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive sugar intake can lead to health issues like weight gain and tooth decay.

4. 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom:

• Calories: 4
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g

benefits: Cardamom is known for its antioxidant properties and may help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.

5. 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional):

• Calories: 2
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits: Rose water adds a fragrant floral flavor to the pudding and is believed to have calming effects on the mind and body.

6. A few strands of saffron (optional):

• Calories: 0
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits: Saffron is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It also adds a vibrant color and distinctive flavor to the pudding.

7. Slivered almonds for garnish:

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 6g

benefits: Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands or variations of the ingredients used. Additionally, cooking methods and added toppings or garnishes can also impact the overall nutritional content of the dish.