Arroz con Dulce

Arroz con Dulce Recipe from Puerto Rico - Ingredients and Steps

Region / culture: Puerto Rico | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Arroz con Dulce, a traditional dessert from Puerto Rico, is a delightful rice pudding made with coconut milk, spices, and raisins. This creamy, sweet dish is a staple during the holiday season but is enjoyed year-round by those who crave its comforting warmth and rich flavors. The unique combination of spices and coconut gives it an exotic twist that sets it apart from other rice pudding variations.

History

The origins of Arroz con Dulce can be traced back to the Spanish colonization of Puerto Rico. The recipe is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Taino influences, combining ingredients and cooking techniques from each culture. Over the centuries, it has evolved into the beloved version we know today, with each family often having its own cherished recipe passed down through generations.

Ingredients

4 cups of water
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of cloves
1 tbsp of crushed fresh ginger
1 x 14 oz (397 g) can of coconut cream such as coco lópez
1 cup of regular, uncooked, short-grain rice
1 cup of sugar
1 tbsp of cooking oil (optional)
0.5 cup of raisins

How to prepare

For best results, soak the rice in water for about two hours before cooking. Drain.
In a deep saucepan, add the salt, cloves, and ginger to three cups of water. Bring to a boil.
Sieve the mixture through a colander to remove any remnants of the spices. Bring to a boil once again.
Add the coconut cream, rice, sugar, and oil.
Cover and cook over medium-low heat for about twenty minutes.
Add the raisins and blend them in.
Continue to cook, uncovered, until the rice has absorbed all the water (approximately fifteen more minutes).
Cooking times may vary depending on your climate and elevation from sea level. Don't worry, this recipe is forgiving if you make any cooking mistakes. Just be careful not to overcook!
Pour the mixture into a square or rectangular dish that is about one inch high and allow it to cool.
Sprinkle ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar on the pudding and cut it into two-inch squares for serving.
It is equally enjoyable when chilled.
The pudding can be kept for several days if well covered in the refrigerator.

Variations

There are many ways to tweak the Arroz con Dulce recipe to suit personal tastes or dietary needs. Some popular variations include:
Using brown sugar or a sugar substitute for a different flavor profile or to reduce sugar content.
Adding other dried fruits such as chopped dates or apricots in place of or alongside raisins.
Incorporating a splash of rum or brandy for an adult version of the dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor for Arroz con Dulce, consider the following tips:

- Soaking the rice beforehand helps it cook more evenly and absorb flavors better.

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the rice from sticking and burning.

- Stir the mixture gently but frequently once the rice is added to prevent lumps.

- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.

- Experiment with the amount of spices for a more personalized flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con Dulce can be served either warm or chilled, depending on personal preference. It's traditionally garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cinnamon sugar. For a festive touch, some like to garnish it with a maraschino cherry or a sprinkle of grated coconut.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for Arroz con Dulce is slow simmering, which allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to become perfectly tender. It's important to monitor the heat closely to prevent the bottom from scorching.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those looking to make substitutions:

- Almond milk or other nut milks can replace coconut milk for a lighter version, though this will significantly alter the traditional flavor.

- Brown rice can be used instead of white for a whole-grain alternative, though cooking times may need to be adjusted.

Make Ahead Tips

Arroz con Dulce is an excellent make-ahead dessert. It can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors often deepen and meld together even more with a bit of time.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve Arroz con Dulce in individual ramekins or glass cups. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar for a visually appealing finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Arroz con Dulce pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a spiced chai tea that complements the dessert's warming spices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or milk to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Arroz con Dulce can range from 250 to 350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. It's a rich and indulgent dish, so it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Arroz con Dulce is rich in carbohydrates, primarily from the rice and sugar. The exact carbohydrate content can vary, but a typical serving may contain around 60-70 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a high-energy dish, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.

Fats

The coconut milk in Arroz con Dulce contributes to the fat content of the dish. A serving may contain approximately 10-15 grams of fat, most of which is saturated due to the nature of coconut fat. While coconut fat has been a subject of nutritional debate, it also provides a rich texture and flavor to the dish.

Proteins

Arroz con Dulce is not a significant source of protein, containing only small amounts from the rice and coconut milk. A serving may offer about 2-3 grams of protein. For a more balanced meal, consider pairing it with a protein-rich food.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert provides some vitamins and minerals, particularly from the coconut milk, which is a source of iron, potassium, and certain B vitamins. However, the amounts are relatively small, so it's best to rely on other foods in your diet for your vitamin and mineral needs.

Alergens

The main allergens in Arroz con Dulce are coconut (a tree nut) and, in some variations, dairy if cow's milk is used alongside or instead of coconut milk. It's also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Summary

Arroz con Dulce is a high-carbohydrate, moderate-fat dessert with minimal protein content. It provides some vitamins and minerals but should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar and calorie content. Be mindful of allergens like coconut.

Summary

Arroz con Dulce is a cherished dessert that combines the comforting texture of rice pudding with the exotic flavors of coconut and spices. Whether enjoyed as a festive treat or a cozy dessert, it's a delightful way to end any meal. With its rich history and versatile recipe, it's a dish that invites creativity and tradition into the kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Arroz con Dulce. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in Puerto Rico. My abuela, my grandmother, was the one who first taught me how to make this delicious dish.

I remember watching her in the kitchen, as she carefully measured out the ingredients and stirred the pot with a wooden spoon. The sweet aroma of coconut and cinnamon filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

My abuela told me that Arroz con Dulce was a traditional Puerto Rican dessert, often served during the holidays or special occasions. She learned how to make it from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

As I grew older, I began to help my abuela in the kitchen, learning the secrets of making Arroz con Dulce. She taught me the importance of using fresh coconut milk, and how to infuse the rice with the flavors of cinnamon and cloves. She showed me how to stir the rice constantly, to ensure that it cooked evenly and absorbed all the delicious flavors.

Over the years, I have made Arroz con Dulce countless times, each batch a little different from the last. Sometimes I add a little extra coconut milk for a creamier texture, or a touch of nutmeg for a hint of spice. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the memories of my abuela teaching me how to make this dish will always stay with me.

One of my favorite memories of making Arroz con Dulce was when I taught my own daughter how to make it. Just like my abuela had done with me, I showed her how to measure out the ingredients and stir the pot with care. It was a special moment, passing down a family recipe that had been cherished for generations.

As my daughter grew older, she began to experiment with the recipe, adding her own twists and flavors to make it her own. She would call me excitedly, telling me about how she had added a splash of rum or a sprinkle of toasted coconut to her latest batch. It made my heart swell with pride to see her carrying on the tradition of making Arroz con Dulce.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, stirring a pot of Arroz con Dulce on the stove, I can't help but think about all the memories and stories that this dish holds. It is more than just a dessert to me - it is a connection to my past, a link to my abuela and all the generations of women who came before me.

I smile as I take a spoonful of the sweet, creamy rice and savor the flavors of coconut and cinnamon. The taste brings me back to my childhood, to the days spent in my abuela's kitchen, learning the secrets of making Arroz con Dulce. And as I share this dish with my family and friends, I know that I am passing on a tradition that will continue to be cherished for years to come.