Are you craving a comforting, creamy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This eggless rice pudding recipe is the perfect answer for a quick and delicious homemade treat. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this delightful dessert comes together beautifully in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings. It's a healthy, satisfying option that's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or other short-grain rice)
- 4 cups whole milk (you can use 2% for a slightly lighter version)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Zest of 1/2 orange (optional, adds a lovely citrusy note)
- Raisins or other dried fruits (optional, for added texture and sweetness)
Instructions:
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Rinse the rice: Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the pudding from becoming gummy.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and orange zest (if using). Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Simmer the pudding: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the milk has been absorbed. Stir frequently during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Add dried fruits (optional): If using raisins or other dried fruits, stir them into the pudding during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Cool and serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice pudding cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled – it’s delicious any way you prefer!
Tips for the Best Rice Pudding:
- Use good quality milk: The richness of the milk significantly impacts the flavor of the pudding. Whole milk is preferred for its creaminess.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Allowing the rice to cook slowly ensures a perfectly tender texture. Low and slow is key!
- Stir frequently: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the pudding before serving and adjust the sugar according to your preference.
- Get creative with toppings: Enhance your rice pudding with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Variations:
- Coconut Rice Pudding: Substitute coconut milk for whole milk for a tropical twist. Add shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
- Chocolate Rice Pudding: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder along with the sugar for a decadent chocolatey treat.
- Spiced Rice Pudding: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves for a warm and aromatic pudding.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings. Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Around 8-10g
- Protein: About 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy rice pudding recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can prepare at home. It's perfect as a quick dinner side dish, a satisfying dessert, or even a comforting breakfast. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy rice pudding!