Classic Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is the ultimate childhood dessert—a comforting and creamy classic that requires only a few ingredients for maximum enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 liter milk (whole milk if possible)
- 100 g short-grain dessert rice
- 40 g sugar
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, pour in the milk and add the sugar, the scraped vanilla seeds, and the bean itself. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- When the milk starts to boil, add the rice and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat so the mixture simmers gently.
- Cook over very low heat for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking. The rice should absorb most of the milk. (If the preparation still looks a bit liquid, keep in mind that it will thicken naturally as it cools.)
- Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Tips
- Opt for short-grain rice or Arborio rice for extra creaminess.
- Serve your rice pudding with liquid caramel, caramelized bananas, or a red berry coulis for a delicious variety.
- Add a spoonful of almond butter for an even more indulgent texture.
Substitutions
- Vanilla bean → Vanilla sugar: Use 2 or 3 sachets and reduce the amount of plain sugar called for in the recipe.
Frequently asked questions
What type of rice is best for rice pudding?
For perfectly creamy rice pudding, choose short-grain rice or Arborio rice. Their high starch content is ideal for achieving that sought-after velvety texture. Avoid using Basmati, jasmine, or glutinous rice, as they are not suitable for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook rice pudding?
Cooking rice pudding usually takes between 30 and 40 minutes, but this can vary depending on your desired texture and the type of rice used. It is important to note that some rice varieties might need a little more time to cook perfectly. The key to this recipe is patience.
Can I sweeten rice pudding with something other than sugar?
Absolutely, you can use honey, maple syrup, or even sweeteners depending on your preferences.
Can I flavor rice pudding with something other than vanilla?
Definitely! Cinnamon is another star flavor for rice pudding, bringing a warm and spicy touch. If you want to go further, feel free to try lemon or orange zest, which will give a pleasant freshness to your dessert.