President Grant's Rice Pudding

President Grant's Rice Pudding Recipe - A Classic American Dessert

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

President Grant's Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This creamy and delicious pudding is the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note. The combination of rice, eggs, sugar, and lemon creates a rich and flavorful dessert that is sure to please any palate.

History

President Grant's Rice Pudding is said to have been a favorite of President Ulysses S. Grant. This recipe has been passed down through the generations and has become a beloved classic in American cuisine. The creamy texture and subtle lemon flavor make this pudding a timeless dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter or margarine
3 cups hot cooked rice
4 eggs, separated
0.5 cup sugar
1 tbsp grated lemon peel
0.13 tsp salt
2 cups half and half
2 cups milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

lemon Sauce

0.5 cup sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
0.13 tsp salt
1 cup boiling water
1 tbsp butter or margarine
1 tbsp grated lemon peel
3 tbsp lemon juice

How to prepare

Stir butter into rice.
Beat yolks in a large bowl; add sugar, lemon peel, salt, half and half, milk, and vanilla.
Fold in egg whites which have been beaten until stiff but not dry.
Turn into a greased shallow 2-0.5 qt (473 ml) baking dish.
Place in a large pan containing hot water 1 inch deep.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Serve warm with lemon sauce.
Lemon Sauce: Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan.
Stir in water gradually. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes.
Blend in butter, lemon peel, and lemon juice.

Variations

Add raisins or dried fruit to the pudding for a sweet and chewy texture.
Substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of this dessert.
Top the pudding with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff but not dry to ensure a light and fluffy texture in the pudding.

- Make sure to cook the pudding in a water bath to prevent it from curdling and ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Serve the pudding warm with the lemon sauce for a delicious and tangy finish.

Serving Suggestions

President Grant's Rice Pudding is best served warm with a generous drizzle of lemon sauce on top. You can also garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pudding in a water bath to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Fold in the beaten egg whites gently to maintain the light and fluffy consistency of the pudding.

- Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor in the pudding.

- Use lemon extract instead of lemon peel for a more intense citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

President Grant's Rice Pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for a warm and comforting dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Serve President Grant's Rice Pudding in individual ramekins for a beautiful and elegant presentation. You can also garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

President Grant's Rice Pudding pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert. You can also serve with a glass of sweet dessert wine for a decadent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover President Grant's Rice Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of President Grant's Rice Pudding contains approximately 300 calories. This dessert is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

President Grant's Rice Pudding is a carbohydrate-rich dessert, with the main sources of carbs coming from the rice, sugar, and milk. Carbohydrates provide the body with energy and are an essential part of a balanced diet.

Fats

The fats in President Grant's Rice Pudding come from the margarine, eggs, and half and half. While fats are high in calories, they also provide essential nutrients and help the body absorb vitamins.

Proteins

Proteins in this recipe come from the eggs and milk. Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making them an important part of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

President Grant's Rice Pudding is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A from the milk and eggs. These nutrients are important for bone health, vision, and overall well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and cornstarch, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dessert to guests.

Summary

President Grant's Rice Pudding is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is also a good source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making it a delicious and nutritious treat.

Summary

President Grant's Rice Pudding is a classic dessert that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This timeless recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delicious pudding warm with a tangy lemon sauce for a sweet and satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was written on an old, yellowed piece of paper, tucked away in a dusty old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The recipe was labeled "President Grant's Rice Pudding," and it caught my eye immediately.

I had always been fascinated by history, especially the stories of famous figures and their favorite foods. So the idea of trying a recipe that was supposedly enjoyed by President Grant himself was incredibly intriguing to me. I knew I had to give it a shot.

I carefully read over the ingredients and instructions, taking note of the unique additions that set this rice pudding apart from others I had made in the past. It called for raisins, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg, along with the usual milk, rice, and sugar. It seemed like a simple enough recipe, but the combination of flavors promised to be something truly special.

As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this recipe. How had it come to be associated with President Grant? Had he enjoyed it often during his time in office, or was it simply a favorite treat of his that had been passed down through the generations?

I imagined President Grant sitting down to a steaming bowl of rice pudding, the warm spices filling the air as he took a spoonful and savored the creamy, comforting dish. It was a comforting thought, and it fueled my determination to recreate this recipe to the best of my ability.

As the pudding simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with the comforting aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. I was preserving a piece of history, one spoonful at a time.

When the pudding was finally ready, I eagerly spooned myself a serving and took my first bite. The flavors were rich and complex, with the sweetness of the raisins balancing perfectly with the warmth of the spices. It was unlike any rice pudding I had ever tasted, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I shared the pudding with my family, regaling them with the story of President Grant's favorite dessert as they savored each spoonful. They were impressed by the unique flavors and the rich history behind the recipe, and I felt a sense of pride in being able to share this piece of the past with them.

From that day on, President Grant's Rice Pudding became a staple in our family's recipe collection. It was a dish that brought us together, reminding us of the importance of preserving traditions and honoring the stories of those who came before us.

As I continue to cook and bake, adding new recipes to my repertoire and passing down old favorites to the next generation, I always think back to that first time I saw President Grant's Rice Pudding recipe. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us closer together as a family.

And so, whenever I make a batch of rice pudding, I can't help but smile as I remember the story of how I learned to make President Grant's favorite dessert. It may be a simple recipe, but to me, it will always hold a special place in my heart.