firstly, in a large kadai heat 2 tbsp ghee and roast 8 cashew, 5 almond, 2 tsp raisins and 2 tsp dry coconut.

roast to golden brown on low flame and keep aside.

in the remaining ghee add 2 pods cardamom and 4 cloves.

also add 1 cup water, ¼ tsp saffron and ¼ tsp orange food colour.

mix well making sure the colour is mixed well.

further, add 1 cup soaked basmati rice (30 minutes) and mix well.

cover and cook on medium flame for 10 minutes.

mix gently, making sure rice is half cooked.

further add ½ cup sugar, 2 tbsp ghee and roasted dry fruits.

mix gently making sure sugar melts.

cover and simmer for 5 minutes.

stir in between to prevent from burning.

cook until the rice is cooked completely. and do not overcook as rice turns mushy.

finally, serve meethe chawal / zarda pulao hot garnished with few chopped nuts.