Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico? Then get ready to savor the delightful sweetness of Arroz con Dulce, a traditional Puerto Rican rice pudding that’s sure to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a delicious and comforting dessert. It's a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6 servings of this creamy, comforting rice pudding.
- 1 cup medium-grain white rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice pudding from becoming too sticky.
Step 2: Simmering the Rice Pudding
In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Low and Slow Cooking
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Adding the Extras (Optional)
During the last 10 minutes of simmering, stir in the raisins and slivered almonds (if using). This allows them to plump up and absorb some of the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Remove the cinnamon stick before serving. Let the Arroz con Dulce cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It's equally delicious either way!
Tips for the Best Arroz con Dulce:
- Use good quality milk: The richer the milk, the richer the flavor of your Arroz con Dulce.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can result in a mushy texture. Follow the cooking time closely.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
- Get creative with toppings: Consider adding other toppings like a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Variations:
- Coconut Arroz con Dulce: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Arroz con Dulce: Stir in 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the spices for a rich chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an approximation and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
This easy Arroz con Dulce recipe is a delightful way to experience the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine. It's a simple dessert that's big on flavor and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this taste of the islands!