Rice pudding

Rice Pudding – The Sweet of Childhood

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Rice pudding is more than just a simple dessert; it is a journey back in time to lazy summer days spent at grandparents' houses, where the sweet aroma of this dish stirs our fondest memories. Whether you are tired of complicated desserts or simply want a quick and comforting sweet, this recipe is just what you need. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Ingredients needed

- 200 g rice
- 1 l milk
- 150 g sugar
- 70 g butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (plus extra for serving)

Ingredient details

Rice: Choose short or medium-grain rice that absorbs liquid well, such as Arborio or sushi rice. This type of rice will yield a creamy and delicious result.

Milk: Use whole milk for a richer taste, but you can also opt for semi-skimmed or plant-based milk if you want a lighter or vegan option.

Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Cinnamon: This adds a warm and comforting flavor, but you can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or vanilla.

Preparation technique

1. Wash the rice: Start by washing the rice under cold running water. This step is essential to remove excess starch, which will prevent the grains from sticking together. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear.

2. Boil the rice: In a large pot, add the washed rice and cover it with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. Boil for 5-7 minutes from the moment the water starts to boil. The rice should not be completely cooked, just partially, as it will continue to absorb the liquid later.

3. Add milk and sugar: Drain the rice from the water and return it to the pot. Pour in the warm milk, add the sugar and cinnamon. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

4. Cook the rice pudding: Place the pot over medium heat and let the mixture come to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the mixture becomes creamy.

5. Add the butter: Turn off the heat and add the 70 g of butter. Stir well until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the rice.

Serving and suggestions

Rice pudding can be served warm or cold, depending on your preferences. You can sprinkle a dash of cocoa or grated chocolate on top for an elegant touch. Another delicious option is to add fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Interesting variations

If you want to experiment, here are some variations you can try:
- Vanilla rice pudding: Add a split vanilla bean or a few drops of vanilla extract for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Chocolate rice pudding: You can add 50 g of dark or milk chocolate, melted into the rice mixture, for a decadent dessert.
- Flavored rice pudding: Instead of cinnamon, you can add a splash of rose water or almond extract for a unique flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Rice pudding is not only delicious but also nutritious. Milk provides calcium and protein, while rice is a good source of carbohydrates, essential for daily energy. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adding extra health benefits.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be longer, and the texture will be different.

2. How can I store rice pudding?
Rice pudding keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It may require a splash of extra milk when reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.

3. Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely! Rice pudding is a healthy and nourishing dessert, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare this wonderful rice pudding, all that’s left is to enjoy every bite! This is a simple yet nostalgic recipe that is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. Savor it with loved ones and share pleasant memories around the table. Enjoy!