Recipe Name: Arroz con Leche (Rice with Milk)
Arroz con leche, a traditional and comforting dish loved across Latin America and Spain, is a delightful dessert that showcases the simple yet harmonious combination of rice, milk, and cinnamon. This creamy dessert can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Below, you’ll find a detailed guide to creating this rich and flavorful dessert, complete with all the essential ingredients and steps you need to follow.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1/2 cup |
| Liquid milk | 2 1/2 cups |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 piece |
| Sugar (to taste) | 1/2 cup (adjust based on desired sweetness) |
| Ground cinnamon (for garnish) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 12mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 6g |
Instructions
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Preparation of the Rice: Begin by placing the raw rice directly into a medium-sized pot. Unlike some recipes that recommend rinsing the rice beforehand, this recipe skips that step to retain the starch that will help create a creamier texture.
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Cooking the Rice: Add 2 cups of liquid milk to the pot along with the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired creaminess.
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Sweetening the Dish: Once the rice is cooked, add the sugar to the pot. Stir well to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely and blends into the mixture. Continue to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sugar to incorporate into the dish.
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Finishing Touches: After the additional cooking time, pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of cold milk. This not only cools down the mixture but also gives it a silky texture. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
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Resting: Remove the pot from the heat and let the arroz con leche rest for a while. This dish can be served warm, straight from the pot, or chilled in the refrigerator until completely cold, depending on your preference.
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Serving: When ready to serve, ladle the creamy rice pudding into bowls or dessert cups. For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top.
This classic Arroz con leche is not only delicious but also offers a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, be it a family meal, a festive celebration, or a simple indulgence at home. Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dessert!
