Maltese Rice Pudding Recipe - Authentic Taste of Malta

Maltese Rice Pudding

Maltese Rice Pudding Recipe - Authentic Taste of Malta
Region / culture: Malta | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Maltese Rice Pudding
Maltese Rice Pudding

Maltese Rice Pudding is a traditional dessert that is loved by many for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Rice pudding has been a popular dish in Malta for centuries, with each family having their own unique twist on the recipe. It is often served during special occasions and holidays, bringing people together to enjoy a sweet treat.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (149°C). Lightly grease a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) baking dish.
  2. Mix all ingredients except Raisins and place in the baking dish.
  3. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour.
  4. Stir in Raisins, dust the top lightly with cinnamon, reduce the heat to 250°F (121°C),
  5. and bake for another 30 minutes.

Variations

  • Add a handful of chopped almonds or pistachios for added crunch.
  • Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the pudding occasionally while it is baking to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the dish.

- You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Maltese Rice Pudding warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a cozy and comforting dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.

- Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the rice pudding in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Maltese Rice Pudding with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 250

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Proteins

Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 15% of daily value

Iron: 4% of daily value

Alergens

Contains dairy (milk) and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This Maltese Rice Pudding is a delicious dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying treat. It also provides a good source of calcium for strong bones.

Summary

Maltese Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that is loved for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. Enjoy this sweet treat with your loved ones!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, visiting the beautiful island of Malta with my family. We had decided to explore the local markets one sunny afternoon, and it was there that I stumbled upon a small, quaint bakery tucked away in a corner.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries and sweet treats. The kind elderly woman behind the counter smiled at me and asked if I would like to try a sample of their famous Maltese Rice Pudding. Intrigued by the exotic name, I eagerly accepted.

The first spoonful of the creamy, rich pudding melted in my mouth, leaving behind a lingering sweetness that I had never experienced before. It was unlike any dessert I had ever tasted, with hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of citrus that danced on my taste buds. I was instantly hooked.

I begged the woman for the recipe, but she simply laughed and shook her head, telling me it was a closely guarded family secret that had been passed down through generations. Disappointed but determined, I made a promise to myself that I would learn how to make this delectable dessert no matter what.

Over the course of our trip, I made it my mission to taste every variation of Maltese Rice Pudding that I could find. I visited local bakeries, restaurants, and even knocked on the doors of some friendly Maltese grandmothers in search of the elusive recipe. Each time, I was met with the same response - a polite refusal and a knowing smile.

But I refused to give up. I took notes, observed their cooking techniques, and asked questions whenever I could. Slowly but surely, I began to piece together the puzzle of this mysterious dessert. I learned that the key to a perfect Maltese Rice Pudding lay in the quality of the ingredients - fresh milk, fragrant vanilla beans, and the finest Arborio rice.

When we returned home from our trip, I was determined to recreate the taste of Malta in my own kitchen. I spent hours experimenting with different recipes, tweaking the measurements and adjusting the cooking time until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

After countless failed attempts and many late nights spent poring over cookbooks, I finally produced a batch of Maltese Rice Pudding that was as close to the original as I had ever tasted. The creamy rice was perfectly cooked, the spices were perfectly balanced, and the texture was just right - not too thick, not too thin.

I proudly served the pudding to my family, who eagerly devoured every last spoonful. Their eyes lit up with delight as they savored the familiar taste of Malta, transported back to that sunny afternoon in the bustling market.

Since then, Maltese Rice Pudding has become a staple in our family gatherings, a reminder of the taste of adventure and discovery. Every time I make it, I am transported back to that magical moment in Malta, where a simple dessert sparked a lifelong passion for cooking and a love for all things delicious.

And though the original recipe may remain a well-kept secret, I am grateful for the journey it took me on, and the memories that it created along the way. The taste of Malta will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty of discovery and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

Categories

| Cereals Recipes | Maltese Appetizers | Maltese Recipes | Raisin Recipes | Rice Pudding Recipes | Rice Recipes |

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