Lebanese Style Riz B Haleeb Recipe – Rice Pudding with Pistachios
This creamy and aromatic Lebanese dessert, Riz B Haleeb (Rice Pudding with Pistachios), is a perfect way to end any Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Infused with the gentle scent of orange blossom water and topped with crushed pistachios, this pudding is a delight to the senses, combining a smooth, creamy texture with a subtle floral flavor. Ideal served warm or chilled, Riz B Haleeb is sure to be a new favorite for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice (soaked for 1-2 hours) | 1/2 cup |
| Milk (and more for cornflour mixture) | 4 cups |
| Sugar (adjust to taste) | 3 tablespoons |
| Cornflour | 2 tablespoons |
| Orange blossom water | 2 teaspoons |
| Pistachios (plus more for garnish) | 10 pieces |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
Instructions
-
Soak the Rice:
Begin by soaking the rice in water for 1-2 hours to soften it. If you’re short on time, you can soak the rice in hot water for about 30 minutes. -
-
Prepare the Milk Base:
In a heavy-bottomed pan or handi, pour the milk and set it to heat on medium. When the milk nears a boil, add the sugar. Stir constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves fully. Keep the milk at a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. -
Add the Rice:
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling milk-sugar mixture. Stir once, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid, leaving a slight opening for steam to escape, and let the rice cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent the rice from sticking and to check its doneness. The rice should be very soft and fully cooked. -
Prepare the Cornflour Mixture:
While the rice cooks, dissolve the cornflour in a small amount of room-temperature milk. Stir until there are no lumps. -
Thicken the Pudding:
Once the rice is fully cooked, pour the cornflour mixture into the pan. Stir well to combine. Immediately add the orange blossom water to the mixture. Keep stirring as the pudding thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove from heat. -
Add Pistachios and Cool:
Stir in a handful of pistachios, then allow the pudding to cool to room temperature. -
Serve and Garnish:
Serve the Riz B Haleeb warm or chilled. Scoop portions into individual serving glasses or bowls and garnish with more crushed pistachios for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Riz B Haleeb pairs beautifully with other Middle Eastern dishes. Serve it as a finale to a meal featuring Lebanese Fattoush Salad, Beetroot Falafel with Pita Bread, and a flavorful Pumpkin Hummus.
