SAEDNEWS: Lerzunak is an exceptionally soft and delicious dessert with a very simple recipe, making it ideal for the Iftar meal.
According to the Saed News Cooking Service, desserts are among the most beloved and diverse foods worldwide. Among them, saffron desserts stand out for their aroma and flavor, offering a delicious treat with a devoted following. Desserts are usually served after meals, as their sweetness aids digestion. Some desserts, with their light and delicate texture and natural sweetness, are especially suitable for Iftar during Ramadan and for those who are fasting.
One such dessert is Larzonak, a very tasty yet simple and inexpensive treat. With just a few basic ingredients and an easy method, you can prepare this dessert for Iftar. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Larzonak.
Cornstarch: 1 cup
Cold water: 8½ cups
Sugar: 1½ cups
Strong brewed saffron: 1 tablespoon
Vanilla: a pinch
Rosewater: ½ cup
Step 1: Begin by placing the cornstarch in a suitable pot. Gradually add the cold water while stirring, ensuring the cornstarch dissolves completely without forming lumps. Place the pot over medium heat and stir continuously until it begins to boil and thicken.
Step 2: Add the sugar and strong brewed saffron, continuing to stir until the sugar dissolves. Lower the heat so the dessert simmers gently, eliminating the raw starch taste.
Step 3: About 10 minutes after adding the sugar, add the vanilla and rosewater. Let the dessert simmer for another two minutes to release the aromas, then remove it from the heat. Pour the dessert into a serving dish and allow it to cool. At this stage, your delicate and flavorful Larzonak is ready to serve. For decoration, you can use slivered almonds or pistachios. Enjoy!
Rosewater quality matters: Rosewater is the aromatic essence of the Persian rose. The finest types are produced in cities like Kashan and Maimand in Fars Province. Today, commercial bottles often vary in purity and may lack the authentic floral aroma. True rosewater has a clear, bright color, a heavy slightly bitter taste, and a pure rose fragrance—without any sour notes.
Cornstarch benefits: Cornstarch contains fiber, wheat components, calcium, and B vitamins, yet is very low in calories. It converts into sugar in the body, providing energy. It helps regulate blood sugar, supports digestion, and can relieve coughs and hoarseness. Cornstarch is mainly derived from wheat, corn, or potatoes. For wheat starch, grains are soaked, rinsed to remove the outer shell, and the starch is separated from the germ. For Larzonak, the puffed form of cornstarch is recommended.
Brewed saffron matters: Always use strongly brewed saffron. The more water used in brewing, the lighter the color, requiring more saffron to achieve the desired hue. To brew saffron, grind it thoroughly without adding sugar. For each teaspoon of saffron, add two tablespoons of boiling water and two ice cubes—this shock enhances its color. Store saffron in a sealed container in the freezer, thawing it at room temperature when needed. Genuine saffron releases oil when pressed between fingers; shiny saffron may indicate it is adulterated.
