Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico? Then get ready to experience the magic of Arroz con Dulce, a beloved traditional dessert that's as comforting as it is delicious. This sweet rice pudding is the perfect ending to any meal, a comforting treat on a chilly evening, or simply a delightful indulgence any time. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the rich flavors will transport you straight to the heart of Puerto Rico. Let's get started on this simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can of evaporated milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Rinse the long-grain rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the Arroz con Dulce from becoming gummy.
Step 2: Simmer the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the water has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add the Milk and Spices
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Sweeten the Deal
Continue to simmer the mixture over low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure a creamy consistency. The longer it simmers, the thicker and richer the Arroz con Dulce will become.
Step 5: Incorporate the Extras
Stir in the raisins and slivered almonds (if using) during the last 5 minutes of simmering. The raisins will plump up beautifully and add a burst of sweetness and texture.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the Arroz con Dulce to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or chilled – both are equally delightful!
Cooking Tips for the Best Arroz con Dulce:
- Use good quality milk: The richer the milk, the richer the flavor of your Arroz con Dulce will be.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will result in a mushy Arroz con Dulce. Follow the cooking times closely.
- Stir frequently: Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a less sweet Arroz con Dulce, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
Variations on a Classic:
- Add other spices: Experiment with other spices like cloves or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
- Use different nuts: Pecans or walnuts would be delicious additions.
- Add dried fruits: Try adding dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as plant-based milks vary in sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Sugar: 25-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
Enjoy your homemade Arroz con Dulce! This delicious Puerto Rican dessert is a perfect way to share a taste of island culture with your friends and family. It’s a recipe that’s easy to follow, and the results are always impressive. Happy cooking!