Rice Pudding
A creamy, comforting rice pudding infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, offering a timeless dessert perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup short-grain rice preferably Arborio or another high-starch variety
- 4 cups whole milk or your preferred milk alternative such as almond or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon plus extra for dusting
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins or chopped dried fruits
- Optional: Zest of 1 lemon for an extra zing
Instructions
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
Cooking:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Continue to stir regularly to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Simmering:
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 35–40 minutes, or until the rice becomes tender and the pudding thickens to a creamy consistency. If using raisins or dried fruits, add them about halfway through the cooking time.
Finishing Touches:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and if you prefer a thinner consistency, stir in a splash more milk.
Serving:
- Transfer the rice pudding into serving bowls. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top and add lemon zest for a bright finish. Serve warm or chilled according to your preference.
Notes
- Customization: For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond, coconut, or soy milk. The pudding may develop a slightly different flavor profile, but it remains equally delicious.
- Rice Selection: Short-grain rice is preferred because its high starch content yields a creamier pudding. However, if you only have access to medium-grain rice, it can be used with a minor adjustment in liquid quantities.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you find the pudding too thick after cooking, gradually stir in a little extra milk while reheating until you achieve your desired texture.
- Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as cardamom or a hint of clove for a unique twist. For an extra burst of flavor, consider incorporating a tablespoon of condensed milk or a drizzle of honey.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the rice pudding warm for a comforting treat on a cool day or chilled as a refreshing dessert during warmer months. Garnish with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of nuts, or additional cinnamon for a visually appealing finish.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its creamy consistency.