Rice pudding with pears

Rice pudding with pears - a delicious and nutritious dessert

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the delicate taste of rice with the fresh aroma of pears? This rice pudding with pears is not just a simple dish, but an explosion of flavors and textures, perfect for a festive meal or a quiet evening at home. Easy to make, this quick dessert is sure to impress anyone.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients

- 400 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons rice (preferably short-grain rice that absorbs liquid well)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons fresh cottage cheese (or 1 box of 100 g cream cheese)
- ½ vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- Zest of one lemon (for an extra flavor)
- 1-2 pears (depending on their size, diced)
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
- White breadcrumbs (for lining the dish)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Cooking the rice: In a medium saucepan, add the milk and bring it to a boil. Add the washed rice, the split vanilla bean (or vanilla extract), and a pinch of salt. This pinch of salt will help enhance the flavors. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice becomes fluffy and absorbs almost all the milk.

2. Adding the pears: Once the rice is cooked, remove the vanilla bean (don't forget to keep it, you can use it for other dishes or to flavor sugar). Add the diced pears and lemon zest. Leave the pot on the heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the pears become slightly soft and release their aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy. Add the cottage cheese and mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. Here, the cottage cheese can provide a pleasant taste and creamy texture, while the cream cheese will add a touch of finesse.

4. Combining the ingredients: Incorporate the rice and pear mixture into the egg and cheese mixture. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to crush the pears. It is important to do this step gently to keep the pear cubes intact.

5. Preparing the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and line it with breadcrumbs so that the pudding doesn't stick. This lining technique will provide a pleasant crust, adding a textural contrast to the dessert.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and level the surface with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch.

Serving and suggestions

Once the pudding is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting and serving. You can add a berry sauce for a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the dessert. Alternatively, a caramel sauce drizzled on top will provide a decadent touch. This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, turning every meal into a pleasant experience.

Little secrets and variations

- Alternative fruits: If pears are out of season or you prefer something else, you can experiment with apples, peaches, or even plums. These fruits will bring a distinct flavor and vary the pudding's texture.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture for a richer and more aromatic taste.
- Crunchy texture: If you want a crunchy note, sprinkle a little sugar on top of the pudding 5 minutes before taking it out of the oven to achieve a caramelized crust.

Nutritional information

This rice pudding is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, protein from the cheese and eggs, and vitamins, especially from the added fruits. It is a dessert that provides energy and can be a good choice for a sweet breakfast or a nutritious snack.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace the milk with a plant-based alternative?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or oat milk for a vegan version of this dessert.

- How long does the pudding last?
The pudding keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

- Is this dessert suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is a nutritious dessert, full of nutrients, but make sure to adjust the sugar content according to the little ones' preferences.

Conclusion

Rice pudding with pears is a simple yet impressive dessert that brings a touch of joy in every spoonful. With a perfect combination of flavors and textures, it is the ideal choice for moments when you want to treat your loved ones. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or accompanied by a delicious sauce, this pudding will surely become a favorite among your desserts. So gather the ingredients and enjoy a memorable culinary experience!