Zarda(Sweet Rice With Saffron) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 Tbsp. butter or margarine
1 c. long grain rice (preferably basmati)
3 to 4 pods cardamom
1 1/2-inch piece cinnamon stick
1 c. milk
pinch of salt (optional)
1/2 c. sugar or to taste
2 Tbsp. heavy cream
1/2 tsp. saffron threads
2 Tbsp. sliced blanched almonds
2 Tbsp. raisins
2 Tbsp. unsalted pistachios, blanched and sliced

Preparation

Cook rice partially in a large amount of boiling water.
Drain in colander, spread on a large plate or board and allow to cool. Pop cardamom pods between fingers but let them remain whole.
Break cinnamon into several pieces.