Rice pudding is a classic dessert cherished across various cultures for its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This straightforward recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to create a delightful rice pudding with minimal effort. By following these steps, you’ll achieve a dessert that’s both satisfying and versatile, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup short-grain rice (such as Arborio)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: ground cinnamon, fresh berries, or fruit compote
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice:
- Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too thick.
- Cook the Rice:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Prepare the Pudding:
- Add the whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt to the cooked rice. Stir to combine.
- Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. This should take approximately 30 minutes. Be cautious to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Flavorings:
- Once the desired consistency is achieved, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, you can also mix in other flavorings such as ground cinnamon or nutmeg at this stage.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Transfer the rice pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm or refrigerate for at least 2 hours if you prefer it chilled.
- Before serving, garnish with your choice of toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh berries, or a fruit compote.
Tips:
- Milk Selection: Whole milk provides a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with low-fat milk, though the pudding may be less creamy.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Start with 1/3 cup and add more if desired.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent a skin from forming on top, place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the pudding.
By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a classic rice pudding that’s both satisfying and versatile, allowing for various toppings and flavor additions to suit your taste.
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