Rice pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s easy to make. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of white rice (preferably medium or short grain)
  • 2 cups of water
  • 4 cups of milk (whole milk is best, but you can use any kind)
  • ½ cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ cup of raisins or other dried fruits (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon of butter (optional, for added richness)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  2. Add Milk and Sugar:
    • Stir in the milk, sugar, and salt.
    • Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
  3. Flavor the Pudding:
    • Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and butter (if using).
    • Add the raisins or other dried fruits, if desired.
  4. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the rice pudding to cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference.
    • Sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon on top if you like.

Tips

  • Creaminess: For extra creamy rice pudding, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk, or add a beaten egg during the last few minutes of cooking (stir quickly to avoid curdling).
  • Flavors: Customize with flavors like nutmeg, cardamom, or almond extract.
  • Sweetness: Adjust the sugar level according to your taste, and remember that the raisins will add natural sweetness.

Enjoy your homemade rice pudding!

Image from Wikipedia