Salvadoran Arroz con Leche

Ingredients

While the original Peruvian Arroz Zambito is made with chancaca (unrefined cane sugar) and often includes raisins and pecans, Salvadoran Arroz con Leche uses condensed milk for a creamier consistency and a sweeter taste. The Salvadoran version also omits the raisins and pecans, focusing on the simplicity of the rice pudding itself. The use of cinnamon and vanilla remains a common thread between the two dishes. We alse have the original recipe for Arroz zambito, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) medium-grain rice 1 cup (200g) medium-grain rice
• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk 4 cups (946ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) condensed milk 1 cup (240ml) condensed milk
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 54g, 30g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the rice, whole milk, condensed milk, and cinnamon stick.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Transfer the rice pudding to serving bowls or individual dessert cups.
7. 7.
   Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill.
8. 8.
   Before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for garnish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch before cooking to ensure a fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon stick — Use a high-quality cinnamon stick for the best flavor. If you don't have a cinnamon stick, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can replace some of the whole milk with heavy cream.
• If you prefer a sweeter rice pudding, you can add an additional 1/4 cup of sugar to the mixture.
• To add a twist of flavor, you can infuse the milk with a few strips of orange or lemon zest while simmering.

Serving advice

Serve the Salvadoran Arroz con Leche chilled for the best experience. It can be enjoyed as a dessert after a delicious Salvadoran meal or as a sweet treat on its own.

Presentation advice

When serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top of each portion for an elegant touch. You can also garnish with a mint leaf or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added visual appeal.