Kazandibi - Turkish Caramelized Milk Pudding

Ingredients

• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk 4 cups (946ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) rice flour 1/2 cup (60g) rice flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon or crushed pistachios for garnish Ground cinnamon or crushed pistachios for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 62g, 48g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice flour and a small amount of milk to create a smooth paste.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the rice flour mixture into the saucepan while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Grease a heatproof dish or individual ramekins with butter or oil. Pour the pudding mixture into the dish(es) and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. 7.
   Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
8. 8.
   Just before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon or crushed pistachios on top for garnish.
9. 9.
   To serve, cut the pudding into squares or scoop it into individual bowls.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice flour — Make sure to whisk the rice flour with a small amount of milk to create a smooth paste before adding it to the saucepan. This will prevent lumps from forming in the pudding.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
• To achieve a perfectly caramelized top, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on the surface of the pudding before refrigerating.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the pudding mixture before pouring it into the dish(es) to remove any lumps.

Serving advice

Serve Kazandibi chilled for the best experience. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

When serving Kazandibi, ensure that the caramelized top is visible by cutting the pudding into squares or using individual transparent glass bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or crushed pistachios for an elegant touch.