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Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Serves 4 Dessert vegetarian, Desserts

Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Rice Pudding with Cinnamon is a beloved staple across Mediterranean households, where the simple combination of milk, rice, and sugar transforms into comfort on a spoon. This homey dessert, often prepared with everyday ingredients, reflects the region's tradition of turning humble elements into something memorable. It's a dish that evokes memories of coastal breezes and garden scents, bringing the essence of Mediterranean life to the table.

The pudding's creamy texture is punctuated by the warmth of cinnamon and the subtle brightness of orange zest, creating a harmony that lingers gently on the palate. With each bite, you experience a balance of sweetness and spice, as if savoring a coastline adorned with citrus groves. Perfectly suited for a quiet evening or a shared meal, this pudding invites you to indulge in its soothing simplicity.

Ingredients

  • 150 grice
  • 1 Lmilk
  • 80 gsugar
  • 1cinnamon stick
  • orange zest — optional

Method

  1. Begin by rinsing 150 g of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too sticky. Drain the rice thoroughly.
  2. In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 1 L of milk, 80 g of sugar, and 1 cinnamon stick. The heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the milk from scorching. Place the pan over medium heat and stir gently to dissolve the sugar.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the rice doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan partially, allowing steam to escape. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.
  4. As the rice cooks, prepare the orange zest by finely grating the outer peel of an orange, avoiding the bitter white pith. Once the rice pudding reaches the desired creamy texture, remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the orange zest. The zest adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that complements the cinnamon.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and let the pudding cool slightly. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the pudding to thicken further. You should notice a fragrant, warm aroma from the cinnamon and orange zest.
  6. To serve, spoon the rice pudding into bowls and, if desired, finish with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Enjoy the pudding warm or at room temperature, savoring the comforting blend of creamy rice, sweet cinnamon, and bright citrus.