Rice pudding with cheese and pineapple

Rice Pudding with Cheese and Pineapple - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Welcome to the fascinating world of sweet flavors! Today we will prepare a simple and tasty recipe for Rice Pudding with Cheese and Pineapple, a dessert that combines the subtle aroma of cottage cheese with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a creamy texture and an unforgettable taste. This pudding is not only a delight but also a pleasant memory for many of us, evoking moments of warmth and kindness in the family.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rice (preferably white rice for a sticky texture)
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons rum essence
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 1 can of pineapple (about 400 g)

A bit of history:
Rice pudding is a traditional dessert that has won the hearts of many with its simplicity and goodness. Over time, it has been adapted in various versions, each with a touch of originality, from using different types of cheese to adding seasonal fruits. This recipe combines tradition with favorite ingredients, offering a modern version of the classic dessert.

Step by step – Preparation:

1. Cook the rice:
Start by rinsing the rice well under cold running water to remove excess starch. Then, boil it in a pot with water and a pinch of salt. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, usually between 15-20 minutes. It is essential to achieve sticky rice, so do not rinse it with cold water after boiling. This will help achieve a well-bound pudding.

2. Prepare the mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the egg, sugar, flour, rum essences, and lemon zest. Use a fork or mixer to obtain a smooth mixture. It is important to ensure that the cheese is lump-free for a fine texture.

3. Add the pineapple:
Drain the pineapple can and cut the slices into small pieces. Add the pineapple to the cheese mixture and gently stir to incorporate.

4. Assemble the pudding:
Grease a baking dish or cake pan with oil and line it with semolina to prevent sticking. Place the cooked rice in the pan and level it with a spatula. Then, pour the cheese and pineapple mixture evenly over the rice, ensuring it is distributed evenly.

5. Bake the pudding:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake the pudding for 25-30 minutes at moderate heat. After this period, reduce the heat to 160°C and let the pudding bake for another 25 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked pudding with a fine texture.

6. Cooling and serving:
Once baked, let the pudding cool completely in the dish. It is important not to slice it when it is warm, as it will crumble. Once it has cooled, slice the pudding and serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or whipped cream. This detail will add an extra flavor and make the dessert even more appealing.

Useful tips:
- If you want to try a healthier version, you can replace sugar with a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.
- Experiment with different fruits! Instead of pineapple, you can use sour cherries, cherries, or peaches from a can. Each variation will bring a personal touch to the dessert.
- Make sure to use quality cottage cheese to achieve the best taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This rice pudding with cheese and pineapple has approximately 220-250 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of protein from the cottage cheese and carbohydrates from the rice, also containing vitamins and minerals from the fruit. Additionally, adding pineapple brings a boost of vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice?
Although white rice is recommended for a uniform texture, if you want to use brown rice, make sure it is well cooked to bind together.
- Can I freeze the pudding?
Yes, the pudding can be frozen, but it is recommended to slice it and wrap it well to preserve its freshness.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the rice pudding with caramel or chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.
- Give it a fresh touch by adding a few slices of fresh pineapple on top before serving.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to start cooking! This rice pudding with cheese and pineapple is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will bring joy to your home. Enjoy!