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From Start to Finish: How to Prepare Rice Flour Porridge (Ferni) Perfectly + Key Tips

2025-01-07 09:56:02

SHAHEDNEWS: Rice flour porridge, or Ferni, is a delightful dish often served during Iftar or as a favorite dessert. It's also a nutritious option for children's meals.

According to SHAHEDNEWS, Rice flour porridge is one of the most delicious and complete foods you can prepare. This versatile dish can be served both as a meal and as a popular dessert. The simplicity of preparing Ferni has made it a staple on Ramadan Iftar tables, offering a delightful treat after long hours of fasting.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Ferni with rice flour:

Ingredients for Rice Flour Porridge

Ingredient	Amount
Milk	4 cups
Rice flour	4 tablespoons (heaping)
Sugar	4 tablespoons
Water	½ cup
Rosewater	½ cup
Ground cardamom	½ teaspoon
Brewed saffron	For garnish
Cinnamon	For garnish
Pistachio slivers	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Pour the cold milk into a pot (preferably non-stick) using a measuring cup or any standard cup.

Step 2:
Add the rice flour, water, sugar, and ground cardamom to the milk. Gently mix with a whisk to ensure there are no lumps.

Tip: Always mix the rice flour with cold milk to avoid clumping.

If you'd like a saffron or chocolate version of Ferni, add saffron or cocoa powder to the mixture along with the rice flour.

Step 3:
Place the mixture on low heat and stir continuously to dissolve the sugar and rice flour completely. This step prevents the formation of lumps.

Step 4:
As the mixture thickens, add rosewater and stir until the desired consistency is achieved. Remove from heat before it becomes too thick, as Ferni firms up further when cooled. Immediately pour it into small bowls for serving.

Note: If by chance the mixture sticks to the bottom of the pot, avoid scraping and mixing it into the rest of the porridge.

Garnishing and Presentation

While Ferni is commonly served alongside Sholeh Zard (saffron rice pudding) during Iftar, extra care can be taken for special occasions.

Use concentrated brewed saffron to create patterns with a spoon or dropper on slightly cooled Ferni.
Garnish with pistachio slivers, cinnamon, or dried rose petals for an elegant touch.

Tip: Allow Ferni to cool in the kitchen before refrigerating to prevent it from releasing water.

Essential Tips for Perfect Ferni

Replace sugar with honey or other natural sweeteners for a healthier option.
Pour and garnish the Ferni immediately after cooking for the best presentation.
Use quality rice flour for enhanced flavor and aroma.
Always cook on low heat, stirring continuously.
Experiment with flavors using saffron, cocoa powder, or other ingredients.