Indulge your senses with a warm bowl of Rice Pudding, or as the Mexicans call it, Arroz con Leche! This creamy, dreamy dessert is a delightful blend of sweet and comforting flavors that will transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in Mexico. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up this classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth or impress your guests with a homemade delicacy, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to dive into the world of creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of Arborio rice, 4 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup of raisins (if using).
- Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed Arborio rice, 4 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- If you are adding raisins, stir them into the pudding during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow them to plump up and soften.
- After the rice pudding has thickened and the rice is cooked through, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Let the rice pudding cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- To serve, you may sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious homemade Arroz con Leche!
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Don’t skip the rinsing step! Washing the Arborio rice until the water runs clear helps to remove excess starch, ensuring your pudding has the perfect creamy texture without being overly sticky.
- Stir Occasionally: While your pudding simmers, make sure to stir it occasionally. This prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and helps achieve that luscious, creamy consistency.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet pudding, start with 1/3 cup of sugar and add more if desired.
- Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of citrus zest for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Arroz con Leche warm or chilled, and don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a beautiful presentation and added flavor!
- Make It Ahead: This dessert can be made in advance! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg