Mexican Rice Pudding
This creamy and sweet Arroz con Leche is a dream come true. Perfect as an indulgent dessert or a warming treat for any occasion.
Published on: · Last updated:
Introduction
Sometimes, the simplest things warm our hearts and transport us to another world. Arroz con Leche, the creamy rice pudding from Mexico, is exactly such a dish. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of culinary history, deeply rooted in Mexican tradition, often gracing family gatherings. Its irresistibly creamy texture and delicate aroma of cinnamon and vanilla make it a true delight for the palate. Whether enjoyed as a comforting sweet treat on a cool evening or as the grand finale to a festive meal, Arroz con Leche enchants with every spoonful. Discover the magic of this typical Mexican sweet dish and let its unique charm captivate you.
Ingredients
- 200g Short-grain rice
- 1L Whole milk
- 200ml Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 Stange Cinnamon stick
- 100g Raisins
- 1 TL Vanilla extract
- 1 Prise Salt
- 2 EL Sugar (optional)
- ½ TL Ground cinnamon
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the rice to a boil with 500ml of water over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer the rice for 10 minutes until the water is almost completely absorbed.
- Add the whole milk, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt to the rice. Stir everything well and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice should be soft and creamy.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, raisins, and vanilla extract. Mix well and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and the raisins are plump. Add extra sugar if desired.
- Remove the cinnamon stick. The Arroz con Leche can be served warm or chilled. For a cooler consistency, refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Before serving, sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Optionally, use additional raisins or another cinnamon stick for garnish.
Nutrition
Tips & Variations
- Substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates for a variation.
- Make a larger batch and store it in the fridge for a quick dessert during the week.
- Stir regularly to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Serve Arroz con Leche with fresh berries or a dollop of dulce de leche.
- For a vegan version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cow’s milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use Arborio rice instead of short-grain rice for Arroz con Leche?
- Yes, Arborio rice is an excellent alternative to short-grain rice, as it also releases a lot of starch, making the dish extra creamy.
- How long does Arroz con Leche last in the refrigerator?
- Arroz con Leche will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy it later as well.
- Can I freeze Arroz con Leche?
- No, it is not recommended to freeze rice pudding, as the texture may suffer after thawing and it could become watery.
- What spices pair well with Arroz con Leche?
- Besides cinnamon and vanilla, you can add a little orange zest or cardamom to give the Arroz con Leche a special touch.