Creamy Rice Delight

Ingredients

In this Roman adaptation of curd rice, we replace the traditional Indian spices like cumin and mustard seeds with fragrant vanilla and honey. The Roman version also uses milk instead of yogurt to achieve a creamy consistency. This dessert is served chilled, unlike the warm curd rice commonly enjoyed in India. We alse have the original recipe for Curd Rice, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) Arborio rice 1 cup (200g) Arborio rice
• 4 cups (950ml) whole milk 4 cups (950ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120g) sugar 1/2 cup (120g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey 1/4 cup (60g) honey
• 1/4 cup (60g) raisins 1/4 cup (60g) raisins
• 1/4 cup (30g) slivered almonds 1/4 cup (30g) slivered almonds
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 35g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, and a pinch of salt.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the mixture has thickened.
5. 5.
   Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, honey, raisins, and slivered almonds. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring continuously.
6. 6.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, transfer the Creamy Rice Delight to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Use Arborio rice for its high starch content, which contributes to the creamy texture of the dessert.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the pudding to plump them up and enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra touch of warmth and aroma.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the mixture in a blender or use an immersion blender before refrigerating.
• Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar and honey according to your taste preference.
• Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Rice Delight in individual bowls or dessert glasses. Top each serving with a sprinkle of slivered almonds and a drizzle of honey for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, garnish the dessert with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few edible flowers. Serve it on a decorative platter or dessert plate for an inviting presentation.