Are you craving a taste of the tropics? Then look no further than this incredibly comforting and delicious Puerto Rican Arroz con Leche, or rice pudding. This isn't your grandma's bland rice pudding; this recipe bursts with the warm spices and creamy texture that make it a beloved dessert across Puerto Rico and beyond. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick dessert, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple recipe will guide you to rice pudding perfection. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for the Best Arroz con Leche
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: raisins, slivered almonds, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Authentic Puerto Rican Rice Pudding
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Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming gummy.
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Combine ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir frequently to prevent burning, especially towards the end of cooking.
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Remove and infuse: Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve and enjoy: Pour the arroz con leche into individual serving bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as raisins, slivered almonds, or shredded coconut, and serve warm or chilled.
Tips for the Perfect Arroz con Leche
- Milk type: For an even richer flavor, consider using a combination of whole milk and heavy cream.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet pudding, use less condensed milk.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as a pinch of cloves or cardamom.
- Preventing burning: Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan helps prevent sticking and burning. Also, make sure to stir frequently, especially during the last stages of cooking.
- Serving: Serve warm for a cozy treat, or chill for a refreshing dessert.
Variations on a Classic
- Chocolate Arroz con Leche: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the other spices for a rich chocolate twist.
- Coconut Arroz con Leche: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut along with the milk for a tropical flavor boost.
- Citrus Arroz con Leche: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a zesty variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 5-7g
This easy arroz con leche recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and transporting you to the sun-drenched shores of Puerto Rico, even if you're miles away. It's a simple pleasure that's perfect for sharing with loved ones, making it a delicious and memorable addition to any meal. Enjoy!