Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Colombia? Then look no further! This Arroz con Leche Colombiano recipe is your ticket to a creamy, subtly spiced rice pudding that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. It’s the perfect end to any meal, a delightful snack, or a comforting treat on a chilly evening. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and adds a delicious dish to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience the best recipes, Colombian style!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-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
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Rinse and Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice pudding from becoming too sticky. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, cinnamon stick, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking is key to achieving the creamy texture of authentic Arroz con Leche.
Step 3: Creamy Dreamy Finish
Remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins (if using), and lemon zest (if using). Continue to cook over low heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and let the Arroz con Leche cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or cold. Garnish with extra cinnamon, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or a few extra raisins for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use coconut milk instead of (or in addition to) some of the whole milk.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
- Make it sweeter: Add a tablespoon or two of sugar if you prefer a sweeter pudding.
- Add some crunch: Top with toasted nuts, like slivered almonds or chopped pecans, for added texture.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the milks with your favorite plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk. Be sure to use a vegan condensed milk alternative as well.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, a general estimate would place a serving around 250-300 calories, with moderate levels of fat, sugar, and carbohydrates. This recipe is relatively high in calcium due to the milk content. For precise nutritional information, we recommend using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and measurements.
This Arroz con Leche Colombiano recipe is a delicious and relatively healthy dessert option. It's a fantastic addition to any meal plan and a perfect way to share a taste of Colombian culture with your family and friends. Enjoy!