Classic Rice Pudding Recipe

Here’s a classic recipe for Rice Pudding:

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
– Pinch of salt
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold running water to remove excess starch. Drain well.

2. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes tender and the mixture thickens.

3. Add sugar and flavorings: Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using) into the rice mixture. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for an additional 10-15 minutes. The pudding should become creamy and slightly thick.

4. Temper the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Take a ladle of the hot rice pudding mixture and gradually add it to the egg yolks, stirring continuously. This process, known as tempering, prevents the yolks from curdling when added to the hot mixture.

5. Combine the egg yolks: Gradually pour the tempered egg yolks into the rice pudding while stirring. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the pudding thickens further.

6. Add raisins (optional): If you like, you can stir in raisins at this stage for extra flavor.

7. Serve and chill: Remove the pudding from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled. If serving chilled, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to cool for a couple of hours before serving.

8. Garnish and enjoy: Before serving, you can sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade rice pudding!