Rice pudding with apples

Rice Pudding with Apples - A Healthy and Delicious Treat

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6

Let yourself be taken on a journey full of flavors and aromas with this rice pudding with apples recipe, a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, offering a healthy and delicious choice for the whole family. This pudding is not only a tasty sweet but also a nourishing option, full of nutrients, perfect for enjoying at any meal or as a snack.

A Brief History

Rice pudding is a dessert that has traversed generations, appearing in various forms in many cultures. Throughout history, rice has been a staple ingredient, and its combination with milk and fruits has given rise to impressive sweet dishes. In this recipe, the apples add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast, turning the dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients

- 5 apples (preferably sweet and aromatic)
- 100 g rice (ideally pudding rice, but you can also use regular rice)
- 500 ml milk (for a vegan version, use soy milk)
- 1 egg (optional, can be omitted in the vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange (for an extra flavor)
- A handful of dried fruits (optional, for an exotic taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter (to grease the dish, you can use oil for the vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for caramelizing the apples)

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold running water, then boil it in a pot with 500 ml of milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, until the rice becomes soft and the milk is absorbed. The rice should be creamy but not completely dry.

Step 2: Flavoring
After the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly. Add the grated lemon and orange zest, as well as the beaten egg (if using). Mix well to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the Apples
Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and the juice evaporates slightly. Use a fork to mash them, but leave some larger pieces for texture. If desired, add the dried fruits for an intense flavor.

Step 4: Assembling the Pudding
In a greased baking dish with butter or caramel (if using), start assembling the pudding. Place a layer of rice, followed by a layer of apples, then repeat this process until all ingredients are used, making sure the last layer is rice. On top, place slices of peeled apples, sprinkled with the remaining brown sugar.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 160°C. Place the pudding in the oven and let it bake for 50 minutes on low heat. You will know it is ready when a golden crust forms on top.

Step 6: Serving
Once cooled, the rice pudding with apples is served cold, ideally with a fresh fruit sauce or alongside vanilla ice cream. For a more sophisticated version, you can add some toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Apples: Opt for sweet and aromatic apples, such as Gala or Fuji, which add a pleasant note to the dessert.
- Vegan Version: If you want to turn this dessert into a vegan recipe, use soy milk and omit the egg. The texture will be slightly different, but the taste will be just as delicious.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits, such as peaches or plums, to vary the flavor.
- Serving: The pudding is also wonderful the next day, so don’t hesitate to keep it in the fridge for a quick snack.

Nutritional Benefits

This rice pudding with apples is rich in complex carbohydrates from the rice, providing long-lasting energy. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, using brown sugar instead of white sugar adds extra antioxidants and a deeper flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the pudding?
The rice pudding keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

3. What other drinks pair well with this dessert?
A cup of jasmine tea or a sweet wine would be excellent accompaniments to complete this culinary experience.

I encourage you to try this rice pudding with apples recipe and adapt it to your tastes! Whether you enjoy it at a special meal or simply as an everyday treat, it is a dessert that will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!