Rice Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 Tasse Short-grain rice
• 4 Tassen Whole milk
• 1/2 Tasse Granulated sugar
• 1 Stange Cinnamon stick
• 1 Prise Pinch of salt
• 1 Teelöffel Vanilla extract
• Zeste von 1/2 Lemon zest (optional)
• Zum Garnieren Ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Rinse the short-grain rice thoroughly under cold, running water in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs completely clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from clumping and promoting a creamier texture. Afterward, drain the rice well to ensure it's ready for further preparation and that the liquid balance in the pot is maintained correctly.
2. In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan—to prevent scorching—combine the whole milk, sugar, one cinnamon stick, a pinch of salt, and optional lemon zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it gently begins to simmer. Be careful not to let the milk boil over or form a skin on top.
3. Once the milk is simmering, stir in the well-drained rice. Immediately reduce the heat to its lowest setting and let the rice pudding simmer gently, covered, for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir carefully from the bottom of the pot every few minutes to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the liquid has thickened to a creamy consistency. Cook for an additional 5 minutes if needed.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully take out the cinnamon stick and lemon zest, as they have served their purpose. Then, stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly until it is well distributed. The vanilla extract adds an additional layer of aromatic depth to the Arroz con Leche, harmonizing perfectly with the other ingredients and completing the flavor profile.
5. Serve the Arroz con Leche either warm, directly after preparation, or thoroughly chilled—both are delicious options. Divide it into individual serving bowls. Generously sprinkle each portion with ground cinnamon. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can also garnish it with fresh berries or a small dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy this traditional Caribbean dessert!

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