Creamy Rice Pudding with a Twist

Recipe

Creamy Rice Pudding with a Twist

Velvety Delight: Balkan-Inspired Creamy Rice Pudding

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Balkan cuisine with this creamy rice pudding recipe. Made with simple ingredients, this dessert is a staple in the Balkan region and is loved for its smooth texture and delicate sweetness.

Jan Dec

10 minutes

40 minutes

50 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Nut-free, Egg-free, Soy-free

Milk

Vegan, Dairy-free, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3.5g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 30g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large saucepan, combine the rice, milk, and sugar.
  2. 2.
    Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  3. 3.
    Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook slowly for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, stirring occasionally.
  4. 4.
    Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
  5. 5.
    Allow the pudding to cool slightly before transferring it to serving bowls.
  6. 6.
    Sprinkle with cinnamon and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
  7. 7.
    Serve the creamy rice pudding 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 pudding.
  • Lemon zest — Make sure to use organic lemons and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any bitterness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
  • If you prefer a sweeter pudding, you can increase the amount of sugar according to your taste.
  • To add a nutty crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts on top before serving.
  • For a festive touch, garnish the pudding with a sprinkle of grated dark chocolate.
  • Leftover rice pudding can be enjoyed warm or cold, and it can also be used as a filling for pastries or cakes.

Serving advice

Serve the creamy rice pudding chilled in individual bowls or dessert glasses. For an elegant presentation, you can garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal of the dish, you can serve the creamy rice pudding in small glass jars or ramekins. You can also layer the pudding with a fruit compote or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.