Apple Rice Pudding

Apple Rice Pudding Recipe - A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Dessert

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Apple Rice Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the sweet and tangy flavor of apples. This recipe is a healthier version of the traditional rice pudding, using skim milk and a sugar substitute to reduce the calorie and sugar content, making it a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake or managing diabetes. The addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, along with raisins, enriches the flavor profile, making it a warm and inviting dish perfect for any season.

History

Rice pudding is a dish with ancient roots, found in various forms across many cultures throughout history. The addition of apples and the use of sugar substitutes in rice pudding is a more modern adaptation, reflecting contemporary dietary preferences and nutritional awareness. This version of Apple Rice Pudding is inspired by traditional recipes but modified to cater to modern health-conscious individuals without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup skim milk
1 tbsp liquid Sugartwin (0.25 cup sugar)
0.25 cup raisins
1 tsp vanilla
0.25 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp nutmeg
1 apple, shredded peel on
0.25 tsp Ascorbic Acid col. keeper

How to prepare

1 tbsp of Sugartwin has the sweetness of 4 tbsp or 0.25 cup of Sugar.
According to the American Diabetes Association guidelines, you can use 1 tsp of Sugar per serving or 2 tbsp for a 6-serving recipe, which would taste okay to people accustomed to low Sugar recipes.
Combine Rice, Milk, sweetener (or Sugar), Raisins, Vanilla, and spices.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and stir occasionally until the mixture is creamy.
Core and shred the Apple and sprinkle it with ascorbic acid color keeper or a little lemon juice.
Stir the Apple into the rice mixture and cook for a few more minutes until the Apple is soft.
Serve the pudding warm or cold. A 0.17 recipe made with artificial sweetener equals 1 starch choice and 1 milk. Optional: cook 0.67 cup of rice in 1.67 cups of water.
To make the pudding without Apple, follow the above steps and add 2 tbsp of coconut.

Variations

For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and a vegan sugar substitute.
Add different dried fruits such as chopped apricots or dates instead of raisins for variation.
Incorporate a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Rice Pudding turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful, consider the following tips:

- Use short-grain rice for a creamier texture.

- Constant stirring is key to preventing the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensuring an even, creamy consistency.

- Adding the apple towards the end of the cooking process retains its texture and flavor.

- Experiment with different types of apples for varying levels of sweetness and tanginess.

- For a richer flavor, consider using a full-fat milk alternative, adjusting the nutritional content accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Rice Pudding can be served either warm or cold, depending on your preference. For an extra touch of indulgence, top it with a dollop of low-fat whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is simmering. Simmering the rice mixture on low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to become tender and creamy without burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for skim milk for a dairy-free version.

- Use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener instead of a sugar substitute, adjusting the quantity to taste.

Make Ahead Tips

This Apple Rice Pudding can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pudding in individual bowls or glasses, layered with additional diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Apple Rice Pudding with a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or a sparkling cider, for a sophisticated dessert option at dinner parties.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a little milk to the pudding to loosen it up and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this Apple Rice Pudding contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

A serving of this Apple Rice Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the cooked rice and the apple. Using a sugar substitute instead of regular sugar helps keep the carbohydrate content lower than traditional rice pudding recipes.

Fats

This recipe is low in fats, with each serving containing about 0.5 grams of fat. The skim milk used in the recipe contributes a minimal amount of fat, making this dessert a heart-healthy option.

Proteins

Each serving of Apple Rice Pudding provides approximately 4 grams of protein, mainly from the skim milk. This makes it a modest source of protein, suitable as a light dessert or snack.

Vitamins and minerals

Apple Rice Pudding is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin D from the milk, and vitamin C from the apple. The addition of ascorbic acid not only helps preserve the color of the apple but also enhances its vitamin C content.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in this recipe is milk. Individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy should consider lactose-free or plant-based milk alternatives.

Summary

Overall, this Apple Rice Pudding is a nutritious dessert option, low in fats and calories, and a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It's suitable for those managing their sugar intake and looking for a heart-healthy dessert choice.

Summary

This Apple Rice Pudding recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic dessert, combining the comforting flavors of rice pudding with the freshness of apples. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to various dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Apple Rice Pudding. It was a cool autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes in her cozy little cottage on the outskirts of town. Agnes was always known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and on that particular day, she had a pot of this warm and comforting dessert bubbling away on the stove.

As soon as I walked in, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples filled the air, and I knew I had to ask Agnes for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a tattered old recipe card, explaining that it had been passed down through her family for generations. I eagerly copied down the ingredients and instructions, my hands trembling with excitement.

That evening, I rushed home to my own kitchen, eager to recreate the delicious dessert I had tasted at Agnes's house. As I mixed together the cooked rice, diced apples, sugar, and spices, the memories of that day with Agnes flooded back to me. I could almost hear her cheerful voice guiding me through the recipe, just as she had done in her kitchen.

After baking the pudding to perfection, I took a bite and was instantly transported back to that cozy cottage with Agnes. The creamy rice pudding was studded with tender chunks of apple and bursting with warm spices. It was a perfect blend of sweetness and comfort, just like Agnes herself.

Over the years, I have made this Apple Rice Pudding countless times, each time thinking of Agnes and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking. I have passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, hoping that they will continue the tradition of making this delicious dessert for years to come.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day with Agnes, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of this recipe and the memories it holds. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with loved ones, and this Apple Rice Pudding will forever be a reminder of the special moments shared in the kitchen with dear friends.