Arroz Con Leche Rice Pudding
Creamy and fragrant rice pudding with lemon and cinnamon, perfect as a comforting dessert or snack for those who enjoy warm, sweet, and citrusy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, rice, and salt to a boil and cook hard for 5 minutes.
- Drain excess water and add milk, lemon rind, cinnamon, and vanilla to the rice.
- Slowly bring the milk to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1/2 cup of sugar and cook until the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Taste for sweetness and add more sugar if desired. Remove the cinnamon stick and chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier Arroz Con Leche, consider using coconut milk in place of some of the regular milk. If you prefer a sweeter pudding, adjust the sugar to taste during the cooking process. Using a whole cinnamon stick infuses more flavor than ground cinnamon, but both can be used depending on your preference. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arroz Con Leche warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few raisins for added texture. It pairs beautifully with Gorgonzola And Green Bean Salad With Pine Nuts for a savory contrast. Consider enjoying it as a comforting dessert after a meal of Mediterranean recipes or alongside fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir well to prevent it from becoming too thick as it reheats.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Con Leche Rice Pudding contains roughly 638 calories, with 8g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and may alter the texture slightly. Adjust the water and milk accordingly since brown rice absorbs more liquid compared to white rice.
What can I do if my rice pudding is too thick?
If your rice pudding is too thick, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently on the stovetop while stirring to ensure it warms evenly and remains creamy.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Arroz Con Leche vegan, substitute cow's milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. Also, replace the sugar with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting to taste. The lemon rind and cinnamon will still provide great flavor without any animal products.
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).