Jasmine Rice Pudding

Jasmine Rice Pudding Recipe - Authentic Vegetarian Thai Dessert

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Jasmine rice pudding is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the fragrant flavors of jasmine rice with a rich caramel topping, creating a dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Rice pudding has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of jasmine rice to this classic dessert adds a unique and aromatic twist that sets it apart from traditional rice pudding recipes.

Ingredients

1 qt (946 ml) whole milk
0.25 cup jasmine tea leaves or a few drops jasmine essence (available at specialty and Asian food markets)
1.33 cups jasmine rice
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp butter
1.5 cups sugar

How to prepare

Heat the milk in a medium saucepan until it is hot but not boiling. Add the tea leaves or essence.
Remove the saucepan from the heat, cover it, and let the milk steep for 20 minutes. Strain the milk and set it aside.
Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
Stir in the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid has evaporated, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
Stir the milk, butter, and 0.5 cup of sugar into the rice.
Cover the saucepan and continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and the pudding has thickened. This should take approximately 30 minutes.
Spoon the pudding into dessert dishes and cover them with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Set the dishes aside in the refrigerator.
Place the remaining cup of sugar in a medium skillet over medium-low heat.
Cook the sugar, without stirring, until it turns a dark amber color. This should take about 15 minutes.
Pour the caramel over the top of each pudding. Serve immediately or at room temperature.

Variations

Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Stir in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Swap out the jasmine rice for another variety, such as basmati or arborio, for a different taste and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture.

- Steeping the milk with jasmine essence adds a subtle floral flavor to the pudding.

- Cooking the rice until tender and the liquid has evaporated is key to achieving the perfect consistency.

- Stirring the pudding occasionally while cooking helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

- Be careful when making the caramel topping, as sugar can burn easily. Watch it closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns a dark amber color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve jasmine rice pudding warm or chilled, topped with the caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Steeping the milk with jasmine essence infuses the pudding with a delicate floral flavor.

- Cooking the rice until tender and the liquid has evaporated ensures a creamy and smooth consistency.

- Making the caramel topping adds a rich and sweet finish to the dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find jasmine essence, you can use jasmine tea leaves or extract as a substitute.

- Coconut milk can be used in place of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative.

- Brown sugar or honey can be used instead of white sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Jasmine rice pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving and top with the caramel sauce.

Presentation Ideas

Serve jasmine rice pudding in individual dessert dishes for an elegant presentation. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Jasmine rice pudding pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting and satisfying dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover jasmine rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings until warm or enjoy chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of jasmine rice pudding contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of jasmine rice pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of jasmine rice pudding contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of jasmine rice pudding contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Jasmine rice pudding is a good source of calcium, providing approximately 15% of the recommended daily intake per serving.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Jasmine rice pudding is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those looking for a sweet treat without too much guilt.

Summary

Jasmine rice pudding is a delightful and aromatic dessert that is sure to please your taste buds. With its creamy texture, fragrant jasmine essence, and rich caramel topping, this recipe is a must-try for any rice pudding lover. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and savor every spoonful of this decadent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a hot summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old recipe book that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, I came across a simple yet intriguing recipe for Jasmine Rice Pudding.

I had heard of rice pudding before, but never one that used jasmine rice. The delicate aroma of jasmine flowers mixed with the creamy texture of rice sounded like a match made in heaven. Excited to try something new, I decided to give it a shot.

As I gathered the ingredients and followed the instructions, I couldn't help but think of my great-grandmother and how she must have felt when she first made this dish. Did she find the recipe in a book like I did? Or did she learn it from a friend or family member?

As the pudding slowly simmered on the stove, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of jasmine. I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When it was finally ready, I scooped myself a generous portion and took a bite. The creamy richness of the pudding combined with the floral notes of the jasmine rice was like nothing I had ever tasted before. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate, leaving me craving for more.

From that day on, Jasmine Rice Pudding became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I cooked it, I felt a connection to my great-grandmother and the generations of women who came before me, passing down recipes and traditions.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a pinch of cinnamon here, a splash of vanilla there. I even learned how to make it dairy-free for my lactose-intolerant friends. But no matter how many variations I tried, the essence of the Jasmine Rice Pudding remained the same – a comforting and nostalgic dish that brought warmth to my heart and soul.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking wasn't just about following a recipe. It was about creating memories, connecting with loved ones, and preserving traditions. And Jasmine Rice Pudding was a perfect example of that. It was more than just a dessert – it was a piece of my family history, a reminder of where I came from and where I was going.

Now, as I pass down the recipe to my own grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. I hope that they too will find solace and comfort in the sweet embrace of Jasmine Rice Pudding, just as I have. And who knows, maybe one day, they'll stumble upon the recipe in an old book and smile, just like I did all those years ago.