Rice pudding (vegan)

Rice Pudding for Lent – A Traditional Dessert with a Modern Twist

Who doesn't remember the comforting aroma of rice pudding, a dessert that takes us back to childhood and warm moments spent with family? Although it is a classic dish, today I invite you to discover a vegan version, using soy milk, which is not only delicious but also suitable for those pursuing a vegan lifestyle or simply wanting to avoid dairy products. This simple and quick recipe will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of soy milk (preferably with honey and cereals for a richer taste)
- 100 grams of rice (a round grain type is ideal)
- 20 grams of sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- (Optional) 1 vanilla pod or 1 packet of vanilla sugar for extra flavor

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have a pot with a thicker bottom, which will help distribute the heat evenly. This is essential to prevent the rice from sticking.

2. Boiling the Soy Milk:
Pour the soy milk into the pot and place it over medium heat. It is important to stir constantly to prevent burning. Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low.

3. Adding the Rice:
Once the soy milk is boiling, add the well-washed rice. You can use a sieve to remove excess starch, which will help achieve a finer texture. It is important to stir continuously to avoid sticking.

4. Cooking the Rice:
Let the rice simmer on low heat, stirring frequently. This is a crucial step, so don't rush! After about 25-30 minutes, the rice should be cooked, and the milk should have thickened.

5. Flavors and Ready to Serve:
When the rice is ready, add the sugar, lemon and orange zest, as well as the cinnamon. These ingredients not only add flavor but also a touch of freshness. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to integrate perfectly.

6. Serving:
The rice pudding can be served warm or cold, depending on your preferences. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or with some fresh fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a delicious contrast.

Practical Tips:
- Types of Rice: Use round grain rice for a creamy consistency. Basmati or long grain rice can work, but the texture will be different.
- Vegan Version: If you want an even more intense flavor, add a vanilla pod to the soy milk during boiling.
- Sweetening: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to personal preferences. You can also use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or stevia.

Nutritional Benefits:
Soy milk is an excellent source of plant protein, rich in calcium, vitamin D, and fiber. It is also low in saturated fats, making it a healthy choice for those looking to improve their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why should I use soy milk?
Soy milk is an excellent alternative to cow's milk, offering a similar texture and rich nutritional content, ideal for people with lactose intolerance.

2. Can I use other types of milk?
Of course! You can experiment with almond, coconut, or oat milk, each having its own flavors and benefits.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The rice pudding can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it by adding a little soy milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.

Personal Story:
I fondly remember the days when my mother would make rice pudding for us, and the aroma of cinnamon and citrus would fill the entire house. This simple and comforting dessert has always been associated with moments of happiness and family gatherings. By adapting this recipe to a vegan version, I managed to keep those memories alive, even during Lent.

In conclusion, this vegan rice pudding recipe is not only simple and delicious but also a perfect way to bring a touch of nostalgia to every meal. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients to give it a personal touch! Enjoy!