Indian Rice Pudding With Cardamom
Overview:
Indulge in the aromatic delight of this Indian Rice Pudding, infused with the warm flavors of cardamom and enriched with coconut and golden raisins. This recipe, reminiscent of a beloved dish served in a local Indian restaurant in the Chicago suburbs, promises a delightful dessert adventure right in your own kitchen. Published originally in the Chicago Tribune on May 2, 1999, this recipe has stood the test of time, earning its place as a cherished sweet treat.
Key Information:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 526.2
- Recipe Category: Dessert
- Keywords: Rice, Asian, Indian, Weeknight, < 4 Hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup sweetened flaked coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 2 tablespoons golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- Optional: a splash of heavy cream for added richness
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy grains. Drain well.
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Simmer the Milk: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk and cream (if using) to a gentle boil over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
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Add the Rice: Once the milk reaches a boil, add the rinsed basmati rice. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer gently in the milk. Allow it to cook for approximately 1 hour or until the rice is tender and the milk has reduced and thickened to a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Sweeten and Flavor: Stir in the sugar, ground cardamom, and sweetened flaked coconut, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the pudding. These ingredients add a delightful sweetness and aromatic flavor to the dish.
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Final Touch: Once the rice pudding reaches the desired consistency and the flavors have melded together beautifully, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve the Indian Rice Pudding warm or cold, according to your preference. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of golden raisins and sliced almonds for a touch of elegance and added texture.
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Storage: This delightful dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness whenever the craving strikes.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 526.2 per serving
- Fat Content: 39.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 24g
- Cholesterol Content: 131mg
- Sodium Content: 121.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 35.1g
- Fiber Content: 0.7g
- Sugar Content: 20.2g
- Protein Content: 10g
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier texture, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
- Experiment with different types of rice for varying textures and flavors. While basmati rice is traditional, jasmine or Arborio rice can also yield delicious results.
- Customize the sweetness to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of sugar added.
- Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating additional spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
- To make this dessert vegan-friendly, swap dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk alternative.
Conclusion:
With its comforting warmth and exotic aroma, this Indian Rice Pudding is sure to become a favorite dessert in your repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a decadent treat after a weeknight meal or served as a delightful finale to a special occasion dinner, this recipe offers a taste of culinary bliss that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the fragrant spices, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the rich flavors of India with every spoonful of this divine dessert.
