Zerde facts for kids
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| Type | Pudding |
|---|---|
| Course | Dessert |
| Place of origin | Persia, Iraq, Turkey |
| Region or state | [middle Eastern] |
| Serving temperature | Cold |
| Main ingredients | Rice, rose water, saffron, sugar, raisins, pistachios |
| 215 kcal (900 kJ) | |
Zerde is a special and sweet dessert from countries like Persia (modern-day Iran), Iraq, and Turkey. It is a type of rice pudding. What makes Zerde unique is its bright yellow color and lovely smell. This comes from a spice called saffron. Saffron also gives it a delicate, flowery taste.
Zerde is often served at happy events. People enjoy it at weddings, when babies are born, and during important religious celebrations. For example, it is a popular dish during the first Sunday of the month of Sha'aban, which celebrates the birth of the prophet Zakariyya. It is also eaten during the first ten days of the holy month of Muharram.
Contents
What Does Zerde Mean?
The name "Zerde" comes from the Persian word zard (زرد), which means "yellow" or "gold." This makes sense because of the dessert's golden color!
In some parts of Turkey, people might add a spice called Turmeric (Zerdeçal) to Zerde. This makes the yellow color even stronger and more intense.
Zerde's Journey to Western Turkey
Zerde is very popular in Turkey. It became well-known in western Turkey, especially in a region called Eastern Thrace. Many people moved to this area, bringing their traditions with them. Eastern Thrace is important because it grows almost half of all the rice in Turkey. Because rice is so common there, Zerde became a favorite dessert.
The exact ingredients used to flavor Zerde can change a little from one region to another in Turkey. This often depends on the local fruits that are available.
How is Zerde Different from Other Rice Puddings?
Most rice puddings are made with milk. However, Zerde is special because it is made with water instead of milk. This gives it a different texture and taste compared to creamy milk-based puddings.
How Many Calories are in Zerde?
A single serving of Zerde has about 215 calories.
