Caramel Rice Pudding

Rice pudding with caramel - a dessert for the whole family

Who doesn't remember childhood, those moments when a simple yet delicious dessert made us smile? Rice pudding with caramel is exactly that type of dessert, a perfect combination of textures and flavors that brings joy to both young and old. This recipe is easy to prepare and promises to be a hit on the holiday table or any day.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The history of rice pudding is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. At its core, rice has been a staple food in many parts of the world, and combining it with milk and sugar has led to the creation of creamy and comforting desserts. Rice pudding has evolved into various forms, but its essence remains the same: a simple yet satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

For the caramel:
- 50 g butter
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 1/2 cup of liquid cream (approximately 125 ml)

For the pudding:
- 200 g rice (preferably dessert rice, such as Arborio)
- 100 g sugar
- 700 ml milk
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (approximately 10 g)
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the caramel:
- Start by placing the sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat. It is important to stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning. This step requires a bit of patience, but the magic will begin to happen as the sugar transforms into a golden, shiny syrup.
- Once the sugar has completely melted and has taken on a golden color, add the butter. Mix well until the butter is completely melted into the caramel. Here you can smell the delicious aroma of fresh caramel.
- Finally, pour in the liquid cream. Be careful! The mixture will be very hot and will produce steam! Continue to stir until everything is well combined. Once the caramel is ready, let it cool, then transfer it to a bowl.

2. Preparing the rice pudding:
- In a saucepan, place the rice and add water with a pinch of salt. Boil the rice for about 5 minutes, then drain it well. This will help achieve a less sticky texture.
- In the same saucepan, pour in the milk and vanilla sugar. Bring the milk to a boil, then add the cooked rice. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice becomes soft and creamy. This takes about 20-25 minutes.
- After the rice has reached the desired consistency, add the sugar and mix well. Cook for another 5-10 minutes to combine all the flavors.

3. Assembling the pudding:
- Once the pudding has cooled slightly, pour the rice mixture into a well-buttered round mold. Spread the mixture evenly in the mold, making sure there are no air bubbles.
- Let the pudding cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight if you have time. This step is essential for achieving a firm texture that is easy to unmold.

4. Serving:
- When you are ready to serve, invert the pudding onto a flat plate. Generously pour the caramel sauce over it. For a more attractive presentation, you can add some fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries, which add a note of freshness.
- This pudding pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, making every meal a special occasion.

Practical tips

- Chocolate version: Add 50 g of dark chocolate to the pudding for a more decadent taste. Melt the chocolate in milk before adding the rice.
- Coconut sugar: If you want a healthier option, you can replace white sugar with coconut sugar, which adds a slightly caramelized flavor and is considered more nutritious.
- Milk variations: You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a vegan version of the pudding. These alternatives add an interesting flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Rice pudding with caramel is a source of carbohydrates from rice, providing energy, while milk brings essential proteins and calcium for bone health. Additionally, using coconut sugar can provide minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use long-grain rice?
- Although long-grain rice can be used, it is recommended to use dessert-specific rice, as it absorbs liquid better and becomes creamier.

2. How can I avoid burning the sugar during caramelization?
- The heat should be low, and constant stirring is essential to prevent burning. If you notice the sugar starting to burn, you can add a little water to help it melt evenly.

3. What other desserts can I try?
- If you like rice pudding, I recommend trying tapioca pudding or rice with milk flavored with cinnamon. These variations are just as delicious and have different textures.

In conclusion, rice pudding with caramel is not just a delicious dessert but also an opportunity to bring people together. Whether you serve it on ordinary days or special occasions, this simple dessert will surely leave an unforgettable impression. Prepare it with love and enjoy every bite!