Rice, milk and apple souffle

Rice pudding soufflé with apples - a warm and comforting delicacy

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the natural sweetness of apples? This rice pudding soufflé with apples is a classic recipe that evokes childhood memories, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite. It's easy to prepare, and the final result is a perfect combination of a light dessert and a nourishing snack.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 cup rice (preferably Arborio or dessert rice)
- 4 cups milk (3% fat is ideal, but you can also use plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 2-3 apples (preferably sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 6-7 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 75 g butter (plus extra for greasing the baking dish)
- Zest of 1 orange (make sure it's well washed)
- 1 vial vanilla essence (or you can use seeds from a natural vanilla pod)
- 1 packet Dr. Oetker vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

Recipe history

Rice soufflé is a dessert with a long history, appreciated in many cultures for its versatility. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it is clear that it was an ingenious way to use rice, a staple ingredient in many cuisines. Rice desserts have often been considered royal delicacies, served on special occasions. Today, rice soufflé is a perfect choice for both everyday meals and festive occasions.

Step by step: Preparing rice pudding soufflé with apples

Step 1: Prepare the rice
Start by washing the rice under cold water, in several rinses, to remove excess starch. Then, in a pot, add the 4 cups of milk and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the rice. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is soft and the milk is almost completely absorbed (about 20 minutes). Finally, add the packet of vanilla sugar and mix well.

Step 2: Cool the rice
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool completely. This is an important step as it will allow the soufflé to set well during baking.

Step 3: Prepare the yolk mixture
Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in a clean bowl and the yolks in another. Add the sugar, melted butter, and orange zest to the bowl with the yolks. Whisk the mixture well until it becomes a smooth cream. It is essential to achieve a fine texture, so don't hesitate to use an electric mixer.

Step 4: Prepare the apples
Wash the apples, peel them, and grate them. These will add a fresh note and a special flavor to the soufflé. If desired, you can also add a little lemon juice to maintain the color of the apples.

Step 5: Combine the ingredients
In the bowl with the cooled rice, add the yolk mixture and the vanilla essence. Gently mix with a spatula or a wooden spoon to integrate the ingredients. Then, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a firm foam. Fold the egg whites into the rice mixture with gentle, upward motions to keep the airiness.

Step 6: Assemble and bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter. Place half of the rice mixture in the dish, add a uniform layer of grated apples, and then pour the remaining mixture on top. This layer of apples will add a delicious taste and an interesting texture. Bake the soufflé for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Serve
Let the soufflé cool slightly before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a scoop of cream or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. Another delicious suggestion is to serve it with a caramel sauce or a drizzle of honey.

Useful tips and variations

- Flavor enhancements: You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture to intensify the flavor.
- Fruit variations: Instead of apples, you can try using pears or apricots. These will give the soufflé a different, yet equally delicious note.
- Protein source: If you want to boost the protein content, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or almonds to the rice mixture.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of rice pudding soufflé with apples contains approximately 250-300 calories, being a good source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Apples add fiber and essential vitamins, making this dessert not only delicious but also nourishing.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use brown rice? While brown rice can be used, the cooking time will be longer, and the texture of the soufflé will be different.
- How can I store the soufflé? Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and replacing the eggs with banana puree or flaxseeds.

This rice pudding soufflé with apples is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this dessert will delight all taste buds. Enjoy!