Rice pudding

Rice pudding - The childhood dessert that brings joy in every spoonful

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Who doesn’t remember the warm and loving moments spent around the table, enjoying a bowl of rice pudding? This simple yet delicious dessert is a symbol of childhood, easy to prepare and incredibly tasty. Rice pudding has crossed generations, being a beloved dish for everyone, regardless of age. Today, I will share with you a classic recipe, but with a personal touch, that will make every bite a sweet memory.

Required ingredients:

- 250 g rice (preferably long-grain rice for a fluffier texture)
- 1 l water
- 1.25 l milk (whole milk gives a richer and creamier taste)
- 250 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence (optional, but recommended for an unmistakable aroma)

Ingredient tips:

- Choose quality rice, as it will affect the final texture and taste. Risotto rice is an excellent choice for a creamy result.
- Using whole milk is essential to achieve a rich consistency. If you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for semi-skimmed milk, but the taste will be less intense.
- Sugar can be replaced with healthier alternatives, such as honey or natural sweeteners, but it’s good to adjust the amount according to the desired sweetness.

Step by step, how to prepare rice pudding:

1. Wash the rice: Start by washing the rice in several waters. This step is crucial to remove excess starch, which could make the rice sticky. Wash until the water runs clear.

2. Boil the rice: Place the washed rice in a large pot and add 1 liter of water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until it becomes soft and fluffy.

3. Drain the rice: Once the rice is cooked, drain it well. This is an important step, as it will allow it to absorb the milk without being too watery.

4. Add the milk: Put the drained rice back in the pot and add 1.25 liters of milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

5. Sweeten: Once the milk has started to boil, add the sugar and mix well. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes, until the rice becomes creamy and the milk thickens.

6. Indulge with vanilla: Remove the pot from the heat and add the vanilla essence. Mix well to incorporate the flavors. This step will add a wonderful aroma and a delicate taste that will remind you of moments spent in childhood.

7. Rest: Cover the pot with a lid and let the rice swell for 30 minutes. This step is essential for allowing the flavors to develop and achieving the perfect texture.

8. Serve: Rice pudding can be served plain or with various toppings. You can add fruit preserves, cinnamon, chopped nuts, or even grated chocolate. A delicious variation is to add some fresh fruit pieces, such as strawberries or bananas, for a delightful contrast.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use instant rice?: While possible, instant rice will not have the same creamy and rich texture. It is recommended to use long-grain rice or risotto rice.
- How can I store rice pudding?: Rice pudding keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk to restore creaminess.
- Is this dessert healthy?: Rice pudding can be a healthy choice if consumed in moderation. It provides carbohydrates, protein, and calcium, but it’s important to be mindful of the added sugar.

Delicious combinations:

Rice pudding pairs perfectly with warm drinks, such as herbal tea or creamy cappuccino. You can also serve it alongside a fruit cake or crunchy cookies to add a crunchy element to your dessert.

Delicious variations:

- Flavored rice pudding: Instead of vanilla essence, you can add lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus note.
- Vegan rice pudding: You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version that will provide an exotic taste.
- Chocolate rice pudding: Add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa to the milk before adding it to the rice for a chocolatey variation.

As you can see, the rice pudding recipe is extremely versatile and can be adapted according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add your own variations. Whether you choose to serve it plain or with various toppings, rice pudding will surely be a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Now, I invite you to embark on this culinary journey and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!