Are you craving a delicious and comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than Arroz con Dulce, a beloved Puerto Rican rice pudding that's sure to become a family favorite. This simple recipe delivers a creamy, subtly spiced rice pudding with a delightful texture that's perfect for sharing after a hearty meal or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative to store-bought desserts. Get ready to experience the magic of this classic dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain 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:
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Rinse the Rice: Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too sticky.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. If using raisins and almonds, add them now.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching, especially towards the end of the cooking time.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let the Arroz con Dulce rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the pudding to thicken and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Remove the cinnamon stick before serving. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with extra cinnamon, raisins, or almonds, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Arroz con Dulce:
- Use good quality milk: The richness of the milk significantly impacts the final flavor and texture of the rice pudding. Whole milk provides the best creaminess.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can result in a mushy pudding. Keep a close eye on it during the simmering process and adjust cooking time as needed depending on your stove.
- Patience is key: Allowing the pudding to rest after cooking is essential for achieving the ideal texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a refreshing citrusy note.
- Coconut Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a warmer, more complex flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. The following is an estimate:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
This Easy Arroz con Dulce recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea companion or a delightful stand-alone dessert – perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while enjoying the flavors of Puerto Rico. Enjoy this delicious dish and the simple joy of homemade cooking!