Brandied Peach Rice Pudding

Brandied Peach Rice Pudding Recipe from USA with Rice, Milk, Eggs, and Spices

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Brandied Peach Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh peaches, all enhanced by a hint of peach brandy. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. The addition of brandy-infused peaches elevates the traditional rice pudding, making it an elegant dessert suitable for any occasion.

History

Rice pudding is a dish with ancient roots, found in various forms across many cultures throughout history. The addition of fruit and alcohol to rice pudding is a relatively modern innovation, reflecting contemporary tastes for more complex flavor profiles. The Brandied Peach Rice Pudding recipe is a fusion of traditional and modern culinary practices, showcasing the versatility of rice pudding as a canvas for flavor experimentation.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
0.5 cup sugar
2 cups milk
2 eggs, beaten
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1 tbsp peach brandy*
3 fresh peaches, sliced
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg

How to prepare

In a saucepan, cook rice, sugar, and milk over medium heat.
Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, which should take about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a separate bowl, mix 2 tbsp of the rice mixture with the eggs. Then, return the mixture to the saucepan and add butter and brandy.
Grease a shallow baking dish with a capacity of 1-0.5 qt (473 ml). Pour half of the rice mixture into the dish and top it with half of the peach slices.
Repeat the layers, arranging the peach slices in a decorative design. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Allow it to cool and chill before serving.

Variations

Consider using other fruits like apricots or cherries for a different flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the peach brandy with peach juice or nectar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the creamiest texture, use short-grain rice as it releases more starch than long-grain varieties. To prevent the eggs from scrambling, temper them by gradually adding a small amount of the hot rice mixture before combining everything together. For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the peaches before adding them to the pudding.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pudding chilled, garnished with a few slices of fresh peach or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. A sprig of mint can add color and a refreshing contrast to the sweet and creamy dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pudding allows for a delightful contrast in textures, with a slightly firmer top layer and a creamy interior. For an even creamier texture, the pudding can be cooked entirely on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute almond or coconut milk for the regular milk, and use a dairy-free margarine. Maple syrup or honey can replace sugar for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

This pudding can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simply cover to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in individual ramekins or glasses layered with additional fresh peach slices for an attractive and portion-controlled presentation. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or coconut flakes can add texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, fruity white wine or a sparkling peach cider makes an excellent accompaniment to this dessert, complementing its sweet and creamy flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, do so gently in the microwave or in a double boiler.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Brandied Peach Rice Pudding contains approximately 280 calories. This makes it a relatively moderate option for a dessert, especially when portion control is practiced.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Brandied Peach Rice Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority comes from the rice and sugar, providing energy. The peaches also contribute natural sugars and dietary fiber.

Fats

This dessert contains about 7 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the margarine and eggs. Using low-fat milk can reduce the fat content, while substituting butter for margarine can alter the type of fats present.

Proteins

Each serving provides around 6 grams of protein, sourced from the milk and eggs. This contributes to the dish's satiating properties, making it a fulfilling end to a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Peaches add a nutritious punch to this dessert, offering vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune function, respectively. The milk contributes calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk, and potentially gluten, depending on the brand of margarine used. It's also important to note the presence of alcohol from the peach brandy.

Summary

Brandied Peach Rice Pudding is a balanced dessert option that offers a variety of nutrients alongside its delightful flavors. While it contains sugar and fat, it also provides protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a worthwhile treat in moderation.

Summary

Brandied Peach Rice Pudding is a versatile and delightful dessert that combines the comfort of rice pudding with the elegance of brandied peaches. With its rich history and nutritional profile, it offers a satisfying end to any meal. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a formal gathering, this pudding is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was passed down to me by my dear friend Emma, who had learned it from her own grandmother many years ago. The recipe for Brandied Peach Rice Pudding was unlike anything I had ever seen before, and I knew I had to master it.

Emma and I spent an entire afternoon in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg. She showed me how to carefully simmer the rice in milk until it was thick and creamy, then fold in the sweet peaches and a generous splash of brandy. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a dessert that was both comforting and elegant.

As I took my first bite of the warm pudding, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite in my own kitchen. I thanked Emma profusely for sharing her family secret with me, and she smiled warmly, knowing that the tradition would live on through me.

Over the years, I have made Brandied Peach Rice Pudding countless times, always with a sense of pride and nostalgia. It has become a staple at family gatherings and holiday dinners, earning rave reviews from loved ones and friends alike. I have even passed the recipe on to my own grandchildren, hoping that they will carry on the tradition with as much love and care as I have.

Each time I make the pudding, I am transported back to that day in Emma's kitchen, surrounded by warmth and friendship. The recipe has become more than just a dessert to me - it is a connection to the past, a reminder of the bonds that can be formed over a shared love of food.

I often think about the origins of the recipe, wondering about the grandmother who first created it. Was she a talented cook, experimenting with ingredients in her own kitchen? Did she pass it down to her children and grandchildren, just as I have done?

I like to imagine her standing in a sunlit kitchen, stirring a pot of simmering rice and peaches, the scent of brandy lingering in the air. Perhaps she too felt a sense of pride and satisfaction as she served the pudding to her loved ones, knowing that she was creating a lasting memory for them to cherish.

As I write this, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipes that have been passed down to me over the years. Each one tells a story, a piece of family history that I am honored to carry on. And as I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Brandied Peach Rice Pudding, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories and connections that endure through generations.

So here's to the grandmothers who came before me, who shared their recipes and their love of cooking with their families. May their traditions live on through us, as we continue to cook, to share, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And may each bowl of pudding be a tribute to the women who inspired us, their legacy carried on through every bite.