Zerde: A Konya Classic

Zerde is a traditional Turkish dessert with a rich history, especially popular in Konya cuisine. 

Zerde has a long-standing tradition in Turkish cuisine and is often associated with celebrations and special occasions, such as weddings or religious festivals. In Ottoman times, Zerde was considered a royal dessert, symbolizing luxury and celebration due to its use of saffron, a high-value spice. The use of saffron, while small in quantity, adds not only flavor but also some potential health benefits, such as antioxidant properties.

Ingredients

• 200 gr rice
• 2 liters of water
• 300 gr sugar

For Dressing

• 5 gr saffron
• Rosewater

Recipe

• Wash the rice and let it rest for 10 minutes.
• Then, put the rice in a bowl with water and boil.
• Add the sugar slowly when the rice looks perforated.
• Continue boiling until it is cooked and add saffron after boiling.
• Then let it cool.
• Optionally, you can add rosewater.

In some recipes, a bit of lemon juice or zest might be added to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor profile.