Rice pudding holds a special place in my heart, woven into the fabric of my childhood. I remember rainy afternoons spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, the sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon swirling through the air as she stirred her bubbling pot of rice pudding. It was a magical time, where the world outside faded away, and all that mattered was the warmth of family and a bowl of creamy comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this classic dish, which brings back those cherished memories with every spoonful.
Ingredients
1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Allow the rice to cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice should be tender, and the mixture will thicken beautifully to a creamy consistency.
In a separate bowl, whisk the lightly beaten eggs. To temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling, gradually add a ladleful of the hot rice mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly. This step is crucial for achieving that silky texture in your pudding.
Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously. If you’re adding raisins, fold them in at this point. Cook the pudding for an additional 5 minutes, stirring until it thickens to your desired creaminess.
Once the pudding has reached the perfect consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chilled, and for an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg on top before indulging.
This rice pudding embodies the essence of comfort food. Each spoonful is a delightful reminder of cherished moments and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Enjoy this creamy treat on a quiet evening or at a family gathering, and watch as it brings smiles and warmth to those around you.