Meethe Chawal Arda Pulao

When we were kids, my mother used to do most of the cooking at home but there were a few dishes that were my father’s specialty. Papa also loves cooking however the chaos he leaves in the kitchen while cooking by mixing up all the spice jars and utensils, my mother doesn’t like the idea of him being in the kitchen :). Today’s recipe is one such recipe that Papa used to prepare for us often when we were kids. It still reminds me of him. The dish is a sweet rice recipe called Meethe chawal or Zarda Pulao.

What is Meethe Chawal?

Meethe Chawal also called Zarda Pulao is a sweet rice dish that is made by cooking rice with sugar, dry fruits, green cardamom, and saffron. It is eaten in many South Asian and Middle Eastern countries and though the recipe may slightly vary in every region, the key ingredients will always be the same. In India, Hindus make it, especially during Basant Panchami, a festival to celebrate the arrival of the spring season. On this day, people wear yellow clothes and eat yellow food to emulate the yellow mustard flowers that bloom in the fields during the season.

Recipe tips, tricks, and variation suggestions

Use long-grain basmati rice to make meethe chawal. Don’t overcook the rice in this dish otherwise, they will turn mushy and spoil the dessert. Adding saffron is recommended as it not only gives a nice yellow tint but also adds flavor to the dish. However, if you don’t have saffron add a few drops of edible yellow color. You can also add jaggery powder instead of sugar. It tastes best when served hot.