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Sheer Birinj (Afghan Rice Pudding w/Almonds & Cardamom)

Servings 4
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • ½ cup long-grain rice rinsed
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ⅓ cup ground cardamom
  • 2 tbsp slivered almonds
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven (or crock-pot on its bake setting) to 250 °C.
  • In an oven-proof dish, combine the rice, milk, butter, and ground cardamom. Stir to distribute evenly, then cover.
  • Bake for 1 hour without opening the lid.
  • Remove the lid and stir the pudding gently to lift the rice.
  • Return to the oven and cook for another 45 minutes, until the rice is fully tender and the mixture is thick and creamy.
  • Let the pudding rest, covered, off heat for 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle it with cinnamon and slivered almonds before serving.

Notes

Sheer Birinj’s creamy texture comes from slow, even baking with the lid on to trap steam. Be sure not to overcook: the rice should be soft but not mushy, and the pudding should hold its shape yet still be pourable. If you prefer a looser consistency, stir in a splash of warm milk before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to two days and gently reheated, adding a little milk if needed to restore creaminess. Sheer Birinj, the traditional Afghan rice pudding, is a delicate and comforting dessert. In Afghan cuisine, Sheer Birinj is more than just a sweet - it's a gesture of warmth and welcome, often served during festivals like Eid, family celebrations and to honour special guests.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Afghan