Arroz Con Leche Carmen
Creamy and aromatic Arroz Con Leche features tender rice simmered in milk with lemon and cinnamon, topped with cinnamon spice—perfect as a comforting Cuban dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the rice, water, lemon rind, and cinnamon sticks together for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Ensure a small amount of water remains in the pot before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Add the milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla, then boil for 1 hour over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lemon rind and cinnamon sticks from the mixture.
- Pour into small serving containers and sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or substituting half of the milk with coconut milk. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 1 cup. Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor. For a fun twist, mix in dried fruits or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arroz Con Leche chilled or warm, topped with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. It pairs beautifully with Cheese And Chutney(Hors D'Oeuvre) for a delightful contrast in flavors. This dessert also complements fresh fruit or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the rice pudding and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Con Leche Carmen contains roughly 1398 calories, with 16g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1063mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
While you can use instant rice, it may not yield the same creamy consistency as traditional rice. Cooking times will differ, so adjust accordingly. For best results, stick with long-grain or medium-grain rice for a classic texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Arroz Con Leche is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredients like vanilla and cinnamon for any additives. Ensure that any additional toppings or mix-ins are also gluten-free to maintain the dish's integrity.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Arroz Con Leche can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to meld beautifully overnight, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).