Delicious Basque Rice Pudding Recipe You Must Try

Are you a fan of the classic dessert that is both creamy and versatile? Well, get excited because today, I will be sharing my recipe for Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche)! This Spanish dessert has been enjoyed for centuries and it is still as popular as ever.

Made with simple ingredients such as white rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon stick, this dessert is easy to make yet packs a flavorful punch. What makes my basque rice pudding recipe unique is that it incorporates a hint of lemon and orange peel for an extra tangy taste that will have your taste buds dancing with every bite.

Whether served warm or chilled, arroz con leche is the perfect comfort food on a cold winter day or a refreshing treat on a hot summer afternoon. This recipe is also incredibly versatile and can easily be customized depending on your mood or preference. It can be made with evaporated milk instead of regular milk to make it even richer!

So why not give my Basque Rice Pudding a try? I guarantee you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche)
Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche)

Are you on the lookout for a quick and easy dessert recipe that can satisfy your sweet cravings? Look no further than this Basque Rice Pudding, also known as Arroz Con Leche. This Spanish dessert made of tender white rice cooked in milk with cinnamon and sugar is the perfect choice for those who love their desserts creamy, rich and indulgent.

Here’s why this rice pudding recipe will rock your world.

Firstly, it’s versatile. You can serve it hot or cold depending on your preference and mood. This makes it ideal for any season or occasion – enjoy it warm on a chilly evening or chilled on a hot summer day.

Secondly, the rice pudding’s subtly sweet flavor is incredibly addictive. The blend of aromatic cinnamon and sugar creates a delicious harmony that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s one of those comfort foods that is both simple but so satisfying, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Thirdly, this recipe is easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With just white rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon sticks, you can whip up the perfect soothing dessert in no time.

In summary, Basque Rice Pudding is the ultimate comfort food dessert packed with robust flavors that are easy to make and beyond delicious. You won’t be able to resist the creamy goodness of this Spanish delicacy. So, give this simple but delectable recipe a try today!

Ingredient List

 A delicious bowl of Arroz Con Leche with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
A delicious bowl of Arroz Con Leche with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Below are the key ingredients you will need to make this Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup white rice (long grain)
  • 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups of water
  • 4 cups of milk
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • Peel of half an orange (optional)

You may already have some of these ingredients in your kitchen, but be sure to double-check before starting this recipe.

The Recipe How-To

 A close-up shot of the creamy rice pudding topped with raisins.
A close-up shot of the creamy rice pudding topped with raisins.

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it is time to start cooking and bring out the flavors of the Basque Rice Pudding! With this recipe, we will let the cinnamon stick and lemon peel infuse into the pudding, giving it a mildly sweet and citrusy flavor. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 lemon peel
  • 4 cups of milk
  • 1 cup of white rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of sugar

Directions:

  1. First, bring the milk to boil in a large pot along with the cinnamon stick, lemon peel, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Stir occasionally and add the white rice to the pot.
  3. Cook over medium heat for around 30 minutes or until the rice is soft and tender.
  4. Don’t forget to stir frequently so that the mixture does not stick to the bottom of the pot.
  5. Once cooked, remove from heat and add sugar to taste.
  6. Take out the cinnamon stick and lemon peel before serving.

Tips:

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking while cooking.
  • When adding in rice, make sure to reduce heat as adding in rice may cause bubbles which may boil over your pot.
  • You can also add raisins to give an extra sweet taste to your pudding.

Variations:

  • You can use whole milk or nut milk according to your preference.
  • Some people prefer adding a combination of condensed milk and evaporated milk to make it extra creamy
  • For a vegan version of rice pudding, replace dairy milk with unsweetened coconut or almond milk.

Enjoy!

Congratulations! You have successfully made yummy and creamy Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche)! This classic Spanish dessert is not only easy to make but also perfect for having with friends and family on any occasion.

Substitutions and Variations

 The perfect dessert for a cozy night in: Basque Rice Pudding.
The perfect dessert for a cozy night in: Basque Rice Pudding.

When it comes to variations and substitutions for this Basque Rice Pudding recipe, there are many options you can choose from to adapt it to your own personal preferences.

One easy substitution is using brown rice instead of white rice. While brown rice has a slightly different texture than white rice, it is a healthier option and will give the pudding a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the milk. If you choose brown rice, just be sure to cook it for a little longer than the white rice.

Adding raisins and/or chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, can add some extra texture and flavor to your rice pudding. The cinnamon stick can also be substituted with ground cinnamon if you don’t have cinnamon sticks on hand.

For a sweeter twist, you can use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk, which will make the pudding thicker and sweeter. If you prefer a lighter sweet version, use almond milk instead of cow’s milk. Alternatively, substituting coconut milk for the regular milk can bring a tropical taste to your dish.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try making an orange zest-infused version by adding orange peel to your milk mixture or a lemon-infused version by adding lemon zest.

Finally, for those who want to make something more elaborate or modern version of this classic Spanish dessert there are variations like combining the pudding with dulce de leche or topping it off with baked meringue before serving.

Remember that while these are just suggestions, feel free to get creative! The beauty of cooking is that there are always substitutions and variations that can take a simple recipe to the next level.

Serving and Pairing

 A spoonful of heaven: Arroz Con Leche with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
A spoonful of heaven: Arroz Con Leche with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Once you’ve made a delicious batch of Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche), it’s time to think about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment. This pudding is traditionally served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving.

To accentuate the flavors of this creamy rice pudding, pair it with fresh fruit or nuts. I like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon and raisins on top for a bit of extra sweetness and crunch. You can also try topping it with some grated coconut or pieces of chopped almonds.

This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of rich, bold coffee or espresso. I recommend making a fresh pot to enjoy alongside your Basque Rice Pudding.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also pair this dessert with sweet wine such as Moscato d’Asti. The sweet and fruity notes of the wine complement the creamy texture and warm spices found in this Spanish dessert.

Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a special occasion, serving Basque Rice Pudding is bound to impress your guests. With its comforting flavors and smooth texture, it’s a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Flavors that melt in your mouth: a bowl of warm Basque Rice Pudding.
Flavors that melt in your mouth: a bowl of warm Basque Rice Pudding.

Once you make a batch of Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche), it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also make a big batch ahead of time and store individual servings in the fridge or freezer for later.

To reheat Basque Rice Pudding, you can place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it up in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Alternatively, you can reheat it on a stovetop by adding a splash of milk and stirring over low heat until heated through.

If you’re storing rice pudding in the fridge, be sure to keep it covered with plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent any flavors from seeping into the dessert. When reheating Basque Rice Pudding, consider adding additional cinnamon stick or orange peel for added flavor.

It’s important to note that some texture changes may occur when reheating Basque Rice Pudding – it may become thicker or dryer over time. Adding additional milk when reheating can help combat this issue.

Overall, storing and reheating Basque Rice Pudding is easy and convenient- making it a perfect dessert option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.

Tips for Perfect Results

 A beautiful contrast of textures and colors: rice, milk, and raisins in a dish.
A beautiful contrast of textures and colors: rice, milk, and raisins in a dish.

Whenever I cook any recipe, I always strive for perfection. And I know many others do too. That’s why I’m here to give you some tips to help you achieve the perfect Basque Rice Pudding.

1. Infuse the milk with cinnamon

The cinnamon stick is what makes this recipe a delicious classic. Adding it to the milk while cooking will infuse it with its unique flavor and aroma, making your pudding even more delightful.

2. Use long-grain white rice

To achieve the ideal texture of this pudding recipe, I highly recommend using long-grain white rice. It holds up better during the cooking process and ensures that your dessert comes out creamy, tender, and not soggy.

3. Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes

It’s essential to cook the rice slowly and evenly over medium heat for 30 minutes for a creamy consistency. This will give enough time for the rice to absorb all the liquid entirely, and the final result will be heavenly.

4. Stir occasionally

While cooking rice pudding, it’s best to stir frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom of the pot, as well as ensuring that everything cooks evenly.

5. Use whole milk or half-and-half

The higher fat content in whole milk or half-and-half helps to create a perfect creamy consistency that characterizes this dish, unlike skim or low-fat milk, which may result in a thin pudding.

6. Add sugar gradually

When adding sugar, do it gradually in small amounts; you don’t want to end with an overly sweet dessert. Taste as you go along until you’re satisfied with the sweetness level.

7. Let it cool before serving

While we know it’s tough to wait for your creation before diving into it, allowing your Basque Rice Pudding time to cool down will give it enough time to set up and thicken correctly.

With these tips, you can make the perfect Basque Rice Pudding on the first try. Trust me; it’s worth it.

FAQ

Now that you are familiar with the ingredient list and the how-to instructions for preparing the Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche), you might have some burning questions about this classic Spanish dessert. Fear not, I have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions to answer any queries you might have. So, keep reading to get answers to some of the commonly asked questions about this delicious rice pudding recipe.

What is arroz con leche made of in Spain?

Arroz con leche, a popular Spanish dessert, has been enjoyed for centuries with various regional adaptations. The dessert consists of rice, milk, sugar, and citrus peel as its primary ingredients.

Is arroz con leche Spanish or Mexican?

Mexican Rice Pudding, also known as Arroz con Leche, is a traditional dessert originating in Mexico. It is made using long-grain white rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon sticks as the main ingredients.

What’s the difference between arroz con dulce and arroz con leche?

Arroz con dulce and arroz con leche are two delicious rice-based dishes that have some notable differences. One of the main differences is the type of rice used, where arroz con dulce is made with short-grain rice, and arroz con leche is made with long-grain rice. Additionally, arroz con dulce is prepared with coconut and spices to give it a distinct flavor, while arroz con leche is flavored with milk and sugar.

Which rice is better for rice pudding?

When it comes to preparing a classic rice pudding, it’s best to reach for long grain converted white rice. This type of rice provides the perfect consistency and texture for this traditional dish. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, arborio rice can also be used to make a delicious rice pudding. Keep in mind that arborio rice tends to soak up more liquid, so it may require additional hot milk or water towards the end of the cooking process.

Bottom Line

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In conclusion, this Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) recipe is a delicious dessert that you should definitely give a try. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and subtle cinnamon aroma, this rice pudding is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you feeling content.

Whether you’re a fan of Spanish rice pudding or Mexican arroz con dulce, this recipe offers the best of both worlds – with its unique basque twist. And if you’re a beginner cook looking for an easy pudding recipe to try out, this recipe is a great place to start.

So what are you waiting for? Gather up your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re enjoying it as a tasty dessert or sharing it with loved ones, this Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) recipe is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and indulge in one of the most beloved puddings from Spain – we guarantee that you won’t regret it!

Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche)

Basque Rice Pudding (Arroz Con Leche) Recipe

This recipe is from my Amuma (Basque for grandmother). I can tell you this is the best recipe you can find for arroz con leche, but you'll just have to try it for yourself. Eskerrik asko
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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine Spanish
Servings 1 ?
Calories 390.5 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 gallon milk
  • 3/4 cup uncle bens white rice
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cinnamon stick (or more per preference)

Instructions
 

  • Bring milk to boil.
  • Add rice.
  • Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes.
  • Then add sugar, salt, and cinnamon stick. Stir very well and cook ten minutes. Stir often and maybe the whole last ten minutes to keep ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
  • Pour in large bowl and allow to cool to room temperature. If thicker pudding is desired, chill in the fridge after pudding reaches room temperature.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 374gCalories: 390.5kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 12.2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7.4gCholesterol: 45.5mgSodium: 355.1mgFiber: 0.7gSugar: 24.9g
Keyword < 60 Mins, Dessert, Easy, Healthy, Low Cholesterol
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Dora

Dora

Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.