Milk Rice (Gossi)

Milk Rice (Gossi) Recipe from Senegal: Creamy and Satisfying Dish for Any Occasion!

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

Introduction

Milk Rice, also known as Gossi, is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that is simple yet delicious. This creamy and comforting rice pudding is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. It is easy to make and requires only a few basic ingredients.

History

Milk Rice has been a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine for centuries. It is often prepared during special occasions such as festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. The dish is believed to have originated from the ancient tradition of offering rice to the gods as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

Ingredients

2 cups of short-grain rice (such as Arborio)
6 cups of water
4.25 cups of milk
2 pinches of salt
0.5 vanilla bean
6 tbsp of sugar (to taste)

How to prepare

Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Wash the rice and drain it. Add the rice to the boiling water and cook for 5 minutes.
In a separate saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.
Remove the cooked rice and drain it. Slowly add the rice to the boiling milk. Reduce the heat and add salt, vanilla bean, and sugar. Cover and simmer for 15 – 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk is absorbed. Add more milk if needed for a tender rice.
Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature according to your preference.

Variations

Add raisins, nuts, or dried fruits for a more decadent version of Milk Rice.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Experiment with different spices such as cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use short-grain rice, such as Arborio, for the best results.

- Be sure to wash the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.

- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference.

- Stir the rice occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Milk Rice can be served with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of fruit compote for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Milk Rice is to simmer it slowly over low heat to allow the rice to absorb the milk and become creamy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have vanilla bean, you can use vanilla extract or vanilla essence as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Milk Rice 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 Milk Rice in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Milk Rice pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Milk Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Milk Rice contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Milk Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Milk Rice contains approximately 6 grams of fats.

Proteins

One serving of Milk Rice contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Milk Rice is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus.

Alergens

Milk Rice contains dairy and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Milk Rice is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Milk Rice is a classic Sri Lankan dish that is loved for its simplicity and comforting flavors. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this creamy rice pudding is sure to satisfy your cravings.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Milk Rice, or Gossi as we call it in our family. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my grandmother in her cozy kitchen. She was a wonderful cook, and I loved watching her as she prepared all sorts of delicious dishes.

One day, as she was sorting through her collection of old recipe cards, she came across one that caught her eye. It was a recipe for Milk Rice that had been passed down from her own grandmother, and she decided to make it for us that day.

I remember watching her as she carefully measured out the rice and milk, adding a touch of sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I knew that I was in for a treat.

As the Milk Rice simmered on the stove, my grandmother told me about how she had learned to make this dish from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been in our family for generations, and she was proud to pass it down to me.

When the Milk Rice was finally ready, my grandmother served it to me in a small bowl, topped with a dollop of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. I took my first bite and was immediately transported back to my childhood, to simpler times when all that mattered was the love and comfort of a warm bowl of Milk Rice.

From that day on, Milk Rice became a staple in our household. My grandmother would make it for me whenever I visited, and I soon learned to make it for myself as well. It became a dish that I would often prepare for my own family, a dish that brought us together and reminded us of our shared heritage.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own little touches here and there. Sometimes I like to add a handful of raisins for a bit of sweetness, or a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of flavor. But no matter how I choose to make it, the essence of the dish remains the same – a simple, comforting bowl of Milk Rice that warms the soul and fills the belly.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Milk Rice for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the recipe that has been passed down through the generations. It is a reminder of the love and connection that binds us together as a family, a reminder that some things never change, no matter how much the world around us may evolve.

So as I stir the pot and watch the Milk Rice come to a gentle simmer, I say a silent thank you to my grandmother, and to all the generations of women who came before her. Their legacy lives on in this simple dish, a dish that brings us together and keeps our family traditions alive. And for that, I am truly grateful.