Creamy Rice Pudding with Mediterranean Flavors

Ingredients

In this Mediterranean adaptation of Riz au lait, we infuse the dish with flavors commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine. The original French recipe is enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg, which add depth and complexity to the dish. Additionally, a touch of orange blossom water and lemon zest is added to brighten the flavors and give it a refreshing twist. We alse have the original recipe for Riz au lait, 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 (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• 1/2 cup (50g) toasted almonds, chopped 1/2 cup (50g) toasted almonds, chopped
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 70g, 40g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and ground nutmeg.
2. 2.
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods.
5. 5.
   Stir in the lemon zest and orange blossom water.
6. 6.
   Transfer the rice pudding to serving bowls or glasses and let it cool to room temperature.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, refrigerate the rice pudding for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
8. 8.
   Before serving, garnish with toasted almonds and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Arborio rice — Use Arborio rice for its creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
• Orange blossom water — Add the orange blossom water gradually, tasting as you go, as its intensity can vary between brands.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, stir the rice pudding occasionally while it's cooling.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
• Experiment with different spices like cloves or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Serve the rice pudding warm for a comforting dessert during colder months.
• Top the rice pudding with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added richness.

Serving advice

Serve the creamy rice pudding chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Sprinkle some ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch of warmth.

Presentation advice

Present the rice pudding in elegant glass bowls or dessert glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a few toasted almonds for a visually appealing presentation.