Why Make This Recipe
Rice pudding is a comforting dessert that is loved by many. It’s simple to make, uses common ingredients, and brings back fond memories for many people. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, rice pudding is creamy, sweet, and satisfying. Making this dish from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
How to Make Rice Pudding
Ingredients:
- 150 g short-grain rice
- 1 L whole milk
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean pod
- 1 pinch of salt
Directions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a saucepan, bring water to a boil, add the rice, and boil for 2 minutes. Drain and discard the water.
- In a large pot, heat the milk with vanilla and a pinch of salt until just starting to simmer.
- Add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, uncovered, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
- After about 30 minutes, stir in the sugar and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Serve warm or chilled.
How to Serve Rice Pudding
Rice pudding can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. You can enjoy it on its own or top it with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or fresh fruit for extra flavor. For added richness, consider drizzling some honey or maple syrup over the top.
How to Store Rice Pudding
Store leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If the pudding thickens in the fridge, you can stir in a little milk to loosen it before serving.
Tips to Make Rice Pudding
- Use short-grain rice for the best creamy texture.
- Be sure to stir regularly while it cooks to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Taste your pudding as it cooks and adjust the sugar or vanilla to suit your taste.
Variation
You can customize your rice pudding by adding ingredients like raisins, chocolate chips, or coconut. Spices like cardamom or ginger can also give a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Short-grain rice is best for a creamy texture, but you can use medium-grain rice. Long-grain rice will not yield the same creaminess.
Can I make rice pudding dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
How can I make rice pudding less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar to your liking or try using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
