Best rice pudding is a sweet dish made with rice, milk, and sugar, and flavored with various ingredients such as cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and even fruits. It is a popular dessert all over the world, and its origins can be traced back to ancient times.
Historically, the very first version of the pudding was first created in China over 4,000 years ago, where it was considered a delicacy reserved only for royalty. It then spread to India and the Middle East, where it was enjoyed by people of all classes. This sweet recipe has its different names in India as Phirni, in Pakistan as Kheer and in Greece as Rizogalo. In Europe, this pudding became a popular dish during the Middle Ages, and it was often served in monasteries and other religious institutions.
The popularity of rice pudding continued to grow, and it eventually made its way to the Americas, where it became a staple in many households. Today, it is still enjoyed all over the world, and it is often served as a comfort food or a dessert to celebrate special occasions.
30 Minute Best Rice Pudding Recipe
Making best rice pudding is a fairly simple process, and it only requires a few ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step recipe for making a classic rice pudding:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup short-grain rice
- 2 cups whole cream milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp ground salt
- 1 small piece cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions for Rice pudding:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water and drain it well.
2. In a medium-sized pot, combine the rice, milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, and cinnamon stick. Stir well to combine.
3. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, and let the rice cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick from the pot, and stir in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg.
5. Transfer the dessert to a serving dish or individual bowls, and let it cool to room temperature. You can serve it as is, or top it with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Nutritional Value of Rice pudding:
This pudding can be a nutritious dessert if made with wholesome ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of one serving of the rice recipe above (based on six servings):
Calories: 347
Total fat: 12g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 42mg
Sodium: 129mg
Total carbohydrates: 53g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 28g
Protein: 7g
So, this recipe is a relatively high-calorie dessert, but it also provides some essential nutrients such as protein and calcium. If you want to make your rice pudding healthier, you can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of sugar used.
As a whole, this is a delicious and best comforting dessert which has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Whether you prefer it plain or with added flavors, it’s a dessert that can be easily customized to suit your taste. So, why not give this classic dessert a try and enjoy its creamy, sweet goodness?
STORING RICE PUDDING
Storing this sweet dessert is relatively simple, and there are a few ways to do it depending on how long you want to store it and how you plan to reheat it.
Here are some options for storing the pudding:
In the refrigerator: If you plan to eat the pudding within a few days, storing it in the refrigerator is the easiest option. Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Rice Pudding In the freezer: If you want to store the dessert for a longer period, you can freeze it. Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, let the pudding sit in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Rice Pudding In individual servings: If you want to have pudding on hand for a quick dessert or snack, you can store it in individual servings. Use small containers with tight-fitting lids or even small mason jars. This makes it easy to grab a serving and reheat it quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Rice Pudding servings In the fridge or freezer with plastic wrap: To prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the rice pudding while it’s stored in the fridge or freezer, you can cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap before sealing the container. This will help keep the pudding fresh and prevent any discoloration or texture changes.
RE-Heating Rice Pudding: When reheating rice pudding, be sure to stir it well to distribute the heat evenly and avoid any hot spots. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to the pudding to help loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
Storing rice pudding is a simple process, and it can be a convenient way to have a delicious dessert on hand whenever you need it.
OCCASIONS TO SERVE REICE PUDDING
Rice pudding is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Here are some occasions on which rice pudding is particularly well-suited:
Comfort food:
Rice pudding is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those cozy nights in when you want to curl up with something warm and sweet.
Holidays:
Rice pudding is a popular dessert for many holidays around the world, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Eid al-Fitr. It’s a festive dessert which is served warm or cold, and it’s easy to customize with different flavors and toppings.
Potlucks and parties:
Rice pudding is a great dessert to bring to potlucks and parties, as it can be easily transported and served in individual portions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy.
For Brunch:
This pudding can be a tasty addition to a brunch spread, as it’s a sweet dish that can be served alongside savory items like eggs and bacon. It can also be topped with fresh fruit or nuts to add a bit of color and texture.
As Dessert after dinner:
This pudding recipe is a classic dessert that can be served after dinner, particularly for a family gathering or a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary. It’s a comforting and satisfying way to end a meal.
To sum this recipe up, rice pudding is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on many occasions. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert or a crowd-pleaser for a party, rice pudding is a great choice.
Check out this fabulous Dessert section if you like sweetness in your life.
