Rice pudding with candied cranberries

Rice Pudding with Candied Cranberries: A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Recipe Introduction

Rice pudding is a classic dessert, rich in traditions and moments of joy. This simple recipe combines the creamy texture of rice with the sweetness of candied cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The pudding is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a source of nutrients, thanks to its natural ingredients. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together, creating a dish that will bring smiles to the faces of our loved ones.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 liter of whole milk
- 300-400 grams of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 3 teaspoons of lemon zest (about from 1-2 lemons)
- 2 teaspoons of orange zest (about from 1 orange)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of butter (for greasing the dish and added flavor)
- 100 grams of candied cranberries

Ingredient Details

- Rice: Choose long-grain rice that absorbs liquids well and remains slightly firm after cooking. Basmati or jasmine rice are excellent for this recipe.
- Candied cranberries: They add a fruity note and a pleasant texture. If you prefer, you can also use raisins or candied cherries for a different taste.
- Milk: Whole milk will provide exceptional creaminess. If you want a healthier option, you can use skim milk, but the result will be less rich.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Boiling the milk: In a large pot, add 1 liter of milk, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 vanilla essence, a pinch of salt, lemon zest, and orange zest. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent the milk from burning.

2. Adding the rice: When the milk starts to boil, add 300-400 grams of rice. Cook the rice for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is for it to start absorbing the milk but remain slightly firm in the center.

3. Cooling the rice: Once the rice has cooked for half the time, turn off the heat and let it sit covered in the pot to absorb the flavors from the milk. It will continue to absorb the liquid.

4. Preparing the cranberries: In a small bowl, place the candied cranberries and cover them with boiling water for a few minutes. This step will rehydrate them and make them softer. After they have softened, drain them well.

5. Assembling the pudding: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Add a layer of rice, sprinkle cranberries, and continue this process, alternating layers until the last layer is rice.

6. Beating the egg white: In a clean bowl, beat the egg white until it forms stiff peaks. You can test the consistency by turning the bowl upside down; if it doesn’t flow out, it’s ready.

7. Finalizing the dish: After placing all the layers in the dish, add the egg white foam on top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the surface becomes golden and browned.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the pudding is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve the pudding warm, at room temperature, or even cold, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can drizzle some caramel sauce or melted chocolate on top before serving. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream alongside would transform this dessert into a true delight.

If you want to experiment, you can replace the cranberries with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other candied fruits of your choice. This rice pudding is versatile and can easily be adapted to your preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

Rice pudding with candied cranberries is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The rice provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy, while the milk adds protein and calcium. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. This recipe is a good choice for a quick dessert, free from additives or preservatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use instant rice? I do not recommend it, as instant rice will not have the same texture and flavor. Long-grain rice is ideal for this recipe.
- How can I store the pudding? The pudding can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is delicious even the next day when the flavors have intensified.
- Can it be frozen? Although it is possible to freeze the pudding, the texture may change upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

This rice pudding with candied cranberries is an easy yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Cooking is an art, but also a form of love, and this dessert is the perfect way to share joy with loved ones. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and experiment until you find the perfect combination for you! Enjoy your meal!