Shir Berenj - Persian Rice Pudding

Serves 6-8

• 1 cup rice (ideally the best rice you have, i.e. Basmati)
• 3 cups whole milk (skim or lowfat will do in a bind)
• 3 cardamom pods (don't sub ground cardamom, as it will darken the pudding's color)
• 1 tablespoon slivered pistachios (for garnish - optional)
• 1/2 - 1 cup sugar (optional - we prefer it without - your call.)

1. Wash the rice (rinsing it a few times until the water runs clear) and drain.
2. Transfer rice to a pot along with 1 cup of milk, 1 cup water, salt and cardamom pods. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cook, covered, for approximately 10-15 minutes (or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice grains are tender.)
3. Add the remaining 2 cups of milk to the cooked rice. Bring to a boil, uncovered, over medium heat. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer (stirring gently and frequently) for approximately 20 minutes until the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove from heat. Pick out the cardamom pods and discard. Pour shir berenj in a big serving bowl or in individual bowls and allow to cool. Garnish to your taste as desired. Once cool, chill in refrigerator.