rice pudding
Rice pudding, creamy and nutritious, perfect for a cozy snack or healthy dessert. Discover all my tips for your version!
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10 minutes until the rice is partially cooked and the water is mostly absorbed.
- Add milk, sweetener, salt, and lemon zest (if using) to the pan. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
- Cook on low heat, stirring often, for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Don’t let it stick to the bottom.
- Remove from the heat. Take out the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let the pudding cool for several minutes. Serve warm or chilled, with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Enjoy your creamy homemade rice pudding!
Notes
Rice pudding is cherished around the world for its simplicity, comfort, and amazing adaptability. This classic dessert can be easily tailored to your personal preferences, whether you're craving something healthier or more indulgent. Its creamy texture and mildly sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at any table.
Tips for Perfect Rice Pudding Every Time
- Choose the right rice: Short-grain white rice works best for a creamy consistency, but you can experiment with arborio or even brown rice for more fiber (just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook).
- Stir frequently: To prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom, stir regularly while cooking—especially in the last 15 minutes.
- Swap ingredients for dietary needs: Lactose intolerant? Use almond or coconut milk instead of dairy. Watching your sugar? Xylitol, stevia, or coconut sugar add sweetness without refined sugar.
Preparation Insights and Tricks
- Low and slow is key: Cooking the pudding on gentle heat lets the starches release slowly, ensuring a velvet-smooth finish.
- Tempering ensures creaminess: If adding eggs for richness (optional), temper them with a bit of hot milk before adding to the pot to prevent scrambling.
- Lemon zest brightness: A little fresh lemon or orange zest can cut through the richness and add fresh aroma.
Serving and Creative Variations
- Serve warm or chilled: Both ways are delicious! Sprinkle with cinnamon, toasted nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for a special touch.
- Vary the flavor: Mix in a handful of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots for added sweetness and texture, or swirl with chocolate or fruit compote for a fun twist.
- Pairing ideas: Rice pudding pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a cup of mint tea, or even as a light finish to a meal featuring spicy dishes, balancing flavors perfectly.
