Rice pudding is a traditional dessert enjoyed in many cultures around the world. In Brazil, it is especially popular during June festivals and special occasions. Made with rice cooked in milk and sweetened with sugar, usually flavored with cinnamon sticks and lemon zest, rice pudding offers a creamy texture and comforting flavor. It's a simple dessert to prepare but captivates with its combination of basic ingredients and homemade essence. Served hot or cold, rice pudding is a comforting delight that brings with it memories of happy moments and family celebrations.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon (without the white part)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Pinch of salt
- Ground cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
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In a medium saucepan, add the rice and water. Cook over medium heat until the water evaporates and the rice becomes tender.
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In another large saucepan, add the milk, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon sticks, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
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Once the milk mixture is boiling, add the cooked rice to the saucepan with the boiling milk. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and the mixture becomes creamy. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
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Remove the lemon zest and cinnamon sticks.
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Transfer the rice pudding to individual bowls or a large serving dish. Let it cool slightly before serving.
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If desired, sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.
This is a basic rice pudding recipe, but you can adjust it to your liking by adding more or less sugar, or even adding ingredients like cloves or vanilla for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy this comforting treat!
