Rice Pudding Recipe
Rice Pudding Recipe Here’s a classic and delicious rice pudding recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (short or medium grain preferred)
- 4 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the rice as the base of your pudding:
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but don’t lift the lid too often as that can release steam and affect the cooking time.
Tip: Short or medium-grain rice works best because they contain more starch, which helps create a thick and creamy pudding.
Step 2: Make the Pudding
Once the rice is cooked:
- Add 4 cups of milk, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pot with the rice.
- Stir the mixture to combine, ensuring the sugar dissolves.
- Cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently.
Tip: Keep an eye on the heat! Too high, and the milk will scald or form a skin. Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
As the mixture cooks, it will start to thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a rich, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in these key ingredients for flavor:
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the pudding.
- Ground Cinnamon (Optional): For a cozy, spiced touch.
- Raisins (Optional): Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to make them plump and juicy.
- Heavy Cream (Optional): If you want a richer and silkier texture, stir in heavy cream at this stage.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- You can serve rice pudding warm for a comforting dessert or refrigerate it for at least 2 hours if you prefer it chilled.
- As the pudding cools, it will thicken further.
Tip: If it becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it before serving.
Step 5: Garnish Ideas
Take your rice pudding to the next level with these toppings:
- Fresh Fruits: Berries, sliced bananas, or diced mangoes add a fresh contrast.
- Nuts: Toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts for crunch.
- Spices: A dash of extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle for an indulgent twist.
- Whipped Cream: For an extra creamy touch.
Final Tips:
- If you like your rice pudding sweeter, you can increase the sugar to 3/4 cup.
- Rice pudding thickens as it cools, so don’t overcook it on the stove.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
