Haitian Rice Pudding

Haitian Rice Pudding Recipe - A Delicious Treat from Haiti

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Haitian Rice Pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that is popular in Haitian cuisine. This creamy and flavorful pudding is made with simple ingredients like rice, sugar, spices, milk, and eggs. It is a perfect dessert to enjoy on a cold day or as a sweet treat after a meal.

History

Rice pudding has been a popular dessert in many cultures for centuries, including in Haiti. The recipe for Haitian Rice Pudding has been passed down through generations and is a beloved dish in Haitian households. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups of precooked rice
0.5 cup of brown sugar
1 tsp of cinnamon
0.5 tsp of nutmeg
0.5 tsp of allspice
0.5 tsp of ginger
0.5 tsp of salt
1 cup of milk
0.5 tsp of cloves
1 tbsp of vanilla
0.5 cup of raisins and nuts
2 beaten eggs

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (177°C).
Make sure to achieve a sticky consistency.

Variations

Add raisins or dried fruit to the pudding mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical twist.
Experiment with different spices like cardamom or cloves for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use precooked rice for this recipe to ensure that the pudding has the right texture.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Stir the pudding mixture frequently while baking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

- Let the pudding cool slightly before serving to allow it to thicken.

Serving Suggestions

Haitian Rice Pudding can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It is delicious on its own or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white sugar instead of brown sugar for a lighter color and flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free version.

- Omit the nuts for a nut-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Haitian Rice Pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Haitian Rice Pudding in individual ramekins or bowls for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Haitian Rice Pudding with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and satisfying dessert experience. It also pairs well with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Haitian Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warm or heat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 10% of daily value per serving

Iron: 8% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: nuts, eggs, dairy

Summary

Haitian Rice Pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it may not be suitable for those with nut, egg, or dairy allergies.

Summary

Haitian Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that is easy to make and full of warm and comforting flavors. With a creamy texture and a hint of spices, this pudding is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as a sweet treat any time of day!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend in Haiti. We were sitting in her kitchen, sipping on some freshly brewed coffee, when she suddenly got up and started rummaging through her old recipe box.

"Ah, here it is!" she exclaimed, pulling out a tattered piece of paper. "This is my grandmother's recipe for Haitian Rice Pudding. I think you'll love it."

I watched as she gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

As my friend stirred the pot of rice pudding, she began to tell me about her grandmother and how she had learned to make this traditional Haitian dish. Her grandmother had always been known for her delicious cooking, and her rice pudding was a family favorite.

She explained how her grandmother had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl, passing down the knowledge from generation to generation. It was a recipe that had been in their family for years, and one that held a special place in her heart.

I watched in awe as my friend cooked the rice pudding, adding in the coconut milk and sugar, and letting it simmer until it was thick and creamy. Finally, she added in a touch of vanilla extract and poured the pudding into a serving dish.

As I took my first bite of the Haitian Rice Pudding, I was transported back to my own childhood. I remembered my own grandmother, who had taught me so much about cooking and baking. She had always encouraged me to try new recipes and to experiment with different flavors and spices.

I could see her now, standing in her kitchen with a smile on her face, as she showed me how to make her famous apple pie or her secret recipe for chocolate chip cookies. She had a way of making every dish special, adding in a pinch of love and a dash of nostalgia.

As I finished my bowl of rice pudding, I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in my own family. I could already imagine the smiles on my grandchildren's faces as they took their first bite, just like I had done so many years ago.

And so, I returned home with the recipe in hand, eager to recreate the taste of Haiti in my own kitchen. I made the rice pudding for my family, sharing the story of how I had learned the recipe and the memories it had brought back.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, stirring a pot of Haitian Rice Pudding, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and experiences that have brought this recipe into my life. It's a dish that holds a piece of my friend's heritage and a piece of my own, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to the people we love.

And as I take a bite of the creamy, comforting rice pudding, I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of my family's traditions for years to come. Just like my grandmother's recipes have been passed down through the generations, this Haitian Rice Pudding will be a cherished memory for my own grandchildren, a taste of the love and history that binds us together.