Almond Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries

🍚🍒 Almond Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries 🍚🍒

Almond Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries is a delightful and creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of almonds and sweet-tart dried cherries with the comforting familiarity of rice pudding. This dessert is a true comfort food classic, and it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a touch of elegance.

History:
Rice pudding is a dessert that has been enjoyed in various forms for centuries. It has roots in different cuisines worldwide, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and European. The addition of almonds and dried cherries likely adds a modern twist to the traditional rice pudding recipes. Almonds have been used in desserts for centuries, and dried cherries are a wonderful addition to sweet dishes, bringing a burst of fruity flavor.

Components:

• Rice: The primary ingredient, usually white rice or Arborio rice, provides the pudding’s creamy texture.
• Milk: The base of the pudding is made with milk, which is responsible for its rich and creamy consistency.
• Almonds: Ground or slivered almonds are added to infuse a nutty flavor and add texture.
• Dried Cherries: These dried fruits provide a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the creamy pudding.
• Sugar: Sweetens the pudding to your desired level of sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of ground cinnamon can enhance the overall flavor.
• Salt: A tiny pinch of salt enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Rinse and Soak Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, which helps it cook evenly.

2. Cook Rice: Drain the soaked rice and add it to a saucepan with the milk. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens (usually around 20-25 minutes).

3. Add Almonds and Cherries: Stir in the ground or slivered almonds, dried cherries, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.

4. Serve: Remove the pudding from heat and let it cool slightly. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

5. Garnish: To enhance the presentation and flavor, consider topping your almond rice pudding with a sprinkle of toasted almond slices or a few extra dried cherries.

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Almond Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your cooking skills and the specific rice variety you use. The soaking and simmering of the rice can be the most time-consuming part, but the delicious result is definitely worth the effort.

Enjoy this delectable dessert that beautifully blends the creamy goodness of rice pudding with the delightful crunch of almonds and the sweet tang of dried cherries. 😋🍚🍒

Certainly, here is the nutrition information for Almond Rice Pudding with Dried Cherries. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate):

• Calories: Around 250-300 calories per serving (1 cup).
• Total Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams, mainly from almonds and any added fats.
• Saturated Fat: Varies depending on the amount of dairy used.
• Cholesterol: Depends on the type and amount of dairy.
• Sodium: Minimal sodium unless added during cooking.
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 40-50 grams per serving, primarily from rice and sugar.
• Dietary Fiber: Typically 2-4 grams per serving.
• Sugars: Varies based on added sugar, dried cherries, and any additional sweeteners.
• Protein: About 5-8 grams per serving, coming from rice and almonds.
• Vitamin D: Varies depending on the type of milk used.
• Calcium: Good source of calcium from dairy or plant-based milk.
• Iron: Small amounts from rice and almonds.
• Potassium: Moderate levels from rice and dried cherries.

Health Information:

1. Protein: Almond Rice Pudding provides a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Fiber: While not extremely high in fiber, this dessert does contain some, which can help with digestion and satiety.

3. Healthy Fats: Almonds contribute healthy monounsaturated fats, which can be good for heart health.

4. Calcium: If made with dairy milk, this dessert can be a good source of calcium, crucial for bone health.

5. Added Sugar: Be mindful of the amount of sugar you add to control calorie intake and reduce the impact on blood sugar levels.

6. Portion Size: As with any dessert, portion control is important to enjoy it as an occasional treat without overindulging in excess calories and sugar.

7. Variations: You can make healthier versions by using low-fat milk or dairy alternatives and reducing the amount of added sugar.

Remember that the nutritional values can vary based on your specific recipe and portion size, so it’s advisable to calculate the exact nutrition information based on the ingredients you use. Enjoy this dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet.