Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this irresistibly creamy and soul-warming Arroz con Leche! This classic dessert is not just a recipe; it's a nostalgic journey through generations of culinary tradition. Imagine a spoonful of velvety rice pudding, infused with the warm embrace of cinnamon and vanilla, that promises to comfort and delight with every single bite. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a curious home cook, this recipe will transform your kitchen into a Mexican grandmother's haven of sweet, creamy magic!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the Arborio rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring the rice grains are clean and separated.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and salt. Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Allow the rice to cook slowly, absorbing the liquid and becoming creamy.
- Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency. The pudding should be slightly loose as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly.
- Transfer the rice pudding to a serving dish or individual bowls. Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top of the pudding for garnish just before serving.
- Serve warm or chilled, depending on preference. The pudding can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: Arborio rice is key to achieving that signature creamy texture. Its high starch content helps create the pudding's luxurious consistency.
- Patience is Your Secret Ingredient: Cook the rice on low heat and stir frequently. Rushing the process can lead to scorching or uneven cooking.
- Watch the Liquid Absorption: The magic happens when rice slowly absorbs the milk, creating a rich, creamy texture. Don't walk away from the stove!
- Cinnamon Stick vs. Ground Cinnamon: Using a whole cinnamon stick infuses deeper flavor compared to ground cinnamon. Remove it before serving.
- Consistency is Crucial: The pudding should be slightly loose when hot, as it will continue to thicken while cooling.
- Storage Hack: This dessert tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving Flexibility: Enjoy it warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat. Both are equally delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
