Milk-Rice Pudding Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Dessert for Every Occasion
If you are looking for a simple yet delightful dessert, Milk-Rice Pudding is an excellent choice. This traditional dish is loved for its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the comforting warmth it brings. Whether you’re craving something sweet after dinner or planning a cozy family gathering, this classic pudding is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!
1/2 cup of Basmati or short-grain rice
4 cups of whole milk
1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp of cardamom powder
1 tbsp of ghee (optional)
A handful of cashews and raisins (for garnish)
A few strands of saffron (optional)
A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. This will remove excess starch and prevent the pudding from becoming too thick. Soak the rice for 15-20 minutes to soften it.
2. Boil the Milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the Rice: Once the milk starts boiling, add the soaked rice. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice doesn’t clump together or stick to the pan.
4. Cook Until Creamy: Continue to cook until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 25-30 minutes. You can crush the rice slightly with the back of a spoon to make it smoother.
5. Sweeten the Pudding: Once the rice is fully cooked, add sugar, a pinch of salt, and cardamom powder. Mix well and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the pudding reaches the desired consistency.
6. Optional Garnish: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly fry the cashews and raisins in a little ghee and add them to the pudding. You can also add a few strands of saffron for a golden hue and a delicate aroma.
7. Serve Warm or Chilled: Your creamy Milk-Rice Pudding is ready to enjoy! You can serve it warm for a cozy treat or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Milk-Rice Pudding:
Consistency: If the pudding becomes too thick, add a little warm milk to adjust the texture.
Sweetness: You can experiment with different sweeteners like jaggery or condensed milk to suit your taste.
Variations: For a fun twist, you can add flavors like vanilla extract or rose water.
Conclusion:
This Milk-Rice Pudding recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, plain or with garnishes, it’s sure to bring a comforting sweetness to your day. Feel free to modify any part of this post to match your style or preferences!
