Rice pudding - Egyptian version

Rice Pudding – Egyptian Style

Imagine a creamy, sweet, and comforting dessert that reminds you of childhood flavors. This Egyptian-style rice pudding recipe is not just a delight but also a culinary tradition that has spanned generations. Whether served for breakfast, as a dessert, or as a snack, rice pudding is a perfect choice for any time of the day.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 ml whole cow's milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons of rice (ideally Arborio rice, which releases starch and provides better consistency)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (for creaminess)
- approx. 30 ml liquid cream (optional, but recommended for a perfect taste)
- a pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. The milk should be fresh, and the rice well washed to remove excess starch.

2. Cooking the milk: In a double-bottomed pot (such as a heavy saucepan), pour in the 500 ml of cold milk. Add a pinch of salt, the 3 tablespoons of rice, sugar, and vanilla sugar. This mixture will create the base of your dessert.

3. Boiling: Place the pot over low heat and let it boil. It is crucial to stir constantly to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This way, you will achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Let it boil for about 30 minutes, checking the consistency periodically.

4. Dissolving the cornstarch: In a small bowl, dissolve the 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water. This will help thicken your mixture.

5. Adding the cornstarch: After 30 minutes of boiling, add the cornstarch mixture to the rice pudding, stirring well to ensure perfect homogenization. Let it boil for another 10 minutes, continuing to stir.

6. Finalizing the dish: Once the rice has reached the desired consistency, add the liquid cream and mix well. This step will transform your dessert into a super creamy and decadent delight.

7. Serving: You can serve the rice pudding warm or cold, depending on your preference. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. You can also add fresh or dried fruits for a delicious contrast.

Practical Tips

- Types of rice: Use short or medium-grain rice, which has the ability to absorb liquids and become creamy.
- Milk: If you want a healthier option, you can replace cow's milk with plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, but the taste will change.
- Vegan option: You can omit the liquid cream and sugar, using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use instant rice? It is not recommended, as instant rice will not provide the same creamy texture as regular rice.
- What can I do with leftovers? Rice pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it and use it as a base for a delicious smoothie.

Delicious Combinations

This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of mint tea or a strong espresso. You can also serve it alongside crunchy biscuits or oatmeal cookies for a contrast of textures.

Conclusion

This Egyptian-style rice pudding recipe is simple yet delivers an impressive result. Whether you choose to make it for yourself or for loved ones, you will bring a touch of tradition and an unforgettable flavor to every serving. So, happy cooking and enjoying!