Arroz con Leche, or rice pudding, is a comforting classic enjoyed across Latin America and beyond. But this isn't your grandmother's rice pudding; this is Arroz con Leche Superior, a recipe elevated to new heights of creamy perfection and rich caramel flavor. We're ditching the bland and embracing a truly decadent dessert, where perfectly cooked rice swims in a luscious, creamy sauce, kissed with the irresistible depth of caramelized sugar. Forget grainy textures and watery disappointments; this recipe promises a sublime experience for your taste buds.
Prepare to be amazed by the transformation of simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a flawlessly smooth and intensely flavorful Arroz con Leche that will impress even the most discerning palates. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions and create the most exceptional rice pudding you've ever tasted.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan
- Tray
- Silicone spatula
- Baking paper
Ingredients
- Long grain rice: 1 cup
- Cinnamon sticks: 2
- Salt: a little
- Water
- Milk
- Evaporated milk: 1 can
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract: a little
- Puffed rice cereal: 1 cup
- Sugar (for caramelizing): 1/4 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Infuse with Cinnamon
- Rinse the rice to remove excess starch. Soak in hot (not boiling) water, stir with clean hands, and rinse with cold water. Drain.
- In another saucepan, heat water, salt, and cinnamon sticks until boiling. Cover and simmer for 2 minutes to release cinnamon flavor.
- Add the rinsed rice to the cinnamon mixture. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for 15 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed.
Step 2. Cook the Rice Pudding
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, evaporated milk, and milk. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add the warmed milk mixture to the rice. Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and cook for another 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat, remove cinnamon sticks, and stir in vanilla extract. Let rest for 20-30 minutes to thicken.
Step 3. Caramelize the Rice Topping
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-high heat until light amber. Remove from heat and immediately add puffed rice cereal, mixing constantly until coated.
- Return to medium-low heat, continue mixing until sugar caramelizes and rice is golden. Spread immediately onto a baking sheet.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Serve the rested rice pudding topped with caramelized toasted rice.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing a lumpy pudding.
- Add the warm milk mixture to maintain the rice's temperature.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking and spilling.
- Work quickly when caramelizing the rice to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: approximately 20-25g
- Carbs: approximately 100-120g
- Protein: approximately 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of rice than Arborio?
While Arborio rice is ideal for its creamy texture, you can experiment with other short-grain rices like sushi rice or even medium-grain rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might need adjusting.
2. How can I prevent my rice pudding from becoming too sweet?
Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Start with less than the recipe calls for and taste as you go. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or a touch of citrus zest.
This elevated arroz con leche recipe transforms a humble dessert into a truly decadent treat. With its perfectly caramelized rice and luxuriously creamy texture, it's sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed by the delightful results!