Shir-berenj is the Persian incarnation of rice pudding, that universal comfort food.Milk, water, rice and cardamom are its indispensable ingredients, and depending on the cook, optional ingredients may include: sugar, rosewater, cream or half and half. Garnished with dried fruit or slivered pistachios. It is not a bold dessert but it not timid at all either - more like a pilgrim: pure, virtuous and good. <br /> <br />Serving: <br />Shir berenj is a dessert but it also makes a decent breakfast and any-time-of-day snack as well. It is traditionally served chilled, but there is really no good reason not to serve it warm if that is your preference. <br /> <br />I find the plain flavor to be soothing and meditative, but if you must have it sweet, you do so with either sugar, syrup, jam, or honey to taste. You can also amp up the flavor and texture by topping your serving with a combination of fruit, dried fruit, and nuts.

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