Persian cuisine has a lot to offer when it comes to traditional and comforting desserts.
One of the most well-known and loved desserts in Persia is a rice and meat pudding known as 'Rice Cake' in Persian.
Although it is commonly translated as 'dairy' which means milk, 'rice-based cake' is actually a rice-based cake, طرز تهیه ته چین مرغ however it does bear similarities with creamy puddings.

Preparation for this Shir Begir starts with cooking a combination of short-grain rice and wheat flour with dairy and honey to a rich consistency, somewhat similar to our concept of a pudding.

Cooked lamb, usually beef, is then added to the warm mixture to incorporate the rich aromas of the meat.

Saffron is an essential component in this dish which not only gives it its signature tone but also imparts the distinct aroma A sprinkle of sugar is melted in and added to the pot along with the cooked pasta, this adds to the overall richness and depth of aroma of the dish.

A handful of recipes call for adding some spices to give it that sweet and tangy twist which is indeed prevalent in Persian cuisine however a few individuals prefer a more subtle flavor and so the proportion and type of additional seasonings can vary.

This classic pudding serves best at room temperature, garnished with some cinnamon on top to give it a delightful textural contrast Shir Begir is commonly enjoyed with family and friends during celebrations such as Shab-e Yalda celebrations.