Raspberry Rice Elegance

Raspberry Rice Elegance Recipe - A Delicious Swiss-Inspired Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Raspberry Rice Elegance is a delightful and unique dessert that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sweetness of red raspberries. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party, as it is sure to impress your guests with its elegant presentation and delicious flavor.

History

The origins of Raspberry Rice Elegance are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been created in the United States in the mid-20th century. This recipe likely evolved from traditional rice pudding recipes, with the addition of cottage cheese and red raspberries adding a modern twist.

Ingredients

2 cups ricotta or creamed cottage cheese
0.75 cup half and half
2 eggs
0.5 cup plus 2 tbsp sugar, divided
1.5 tsp vanilla extract, divided
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup sour cream
0.25 cup red currant jelly
1 10 oz (283 g) package frozen red raspberries
1 tbsp cornstarch

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat together cheese, half and half, eggs, 0.5 cup of sugar, 1 tsp of vanilla, and cinnamon.
Stir in rice.
Pour the mixture into a buttered 10-inch pie plate.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until set.
In another bowl, combine sour cream with the remaining 2 tbsp of sugar and vanilla.
Spread the sour cream mixture over the custard and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Allow the pie to cool, then refrigerate for 3 hours or until chilled.
In a saucepan, melt the jelly.
Combine cornstarch and 1 tbsp of water, then stir into the melted jelly.
Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it becomes clear and thickened.
Add the berries, stirring gently.
Cook over low heat until the berries are thawed.
Cover and chill the sauce.
Serve the sauce over wedges of the pudding.

Variations

Try using different types of berries, such as blueberries or blackberries, in place of the red raspberries for a unique twist on this recipe.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the custard mixture for added crunch and flavor.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cottage cheese and sour cream in place of the full-fat versions.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly mix the cottage cheese, half and half, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon to ensure a smooth and creamy custard.

- Make sure to bake the pudding until it is set, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can result in a dry texture.

- The sour cream topping adds a tangy contrast to the sweet custard, so be sure to spread it evenly over the pudding before baking.

- The red currant jelly and raspberry sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Raspberry Rice Elegance with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness. This dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to bake the pudding in a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent the custard from curdling.

- Use a high-quality pie plate to ensure that the pudding bakes evenly and does not stick to the pan.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have red currant jelly, you can use another type of fruit jelly or preserves, such as strawberry or raspberry.

- Substitute brown sugar for white sugar for a richer flavor in the custard.

Make Ahead Tips

Raspberry Rice Elegance can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each slice of Raspberry Rice Elegance with a fresh raspberry or mint leaf for a pop of color and added visual appeal. Serve the dessert on a decorative platter or cake stand for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Raspberry Rice Elegance with a glass of sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato or Riesling, for a perfect end to a meal. This dessert also pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Raspberry Rice Elegance in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 30 seconds or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Raspberry Rice Elegance contains approximately 300 calories. This dessert is a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Raspberry Rice Elegance contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of Raspberry Rice Elegance contains approximately 12 grams of fat. Fat is an important nutrient that provides energy, helps absorb vitamins, and supports cell growth.

Proteins

Each serving of Raspberry Rice Elegance contains approximately 12 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting immune function and hormone production.

Vitamins and minerals

Raspberry Rice Elegance is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Calcium is important for bone health, while vitamin A and C are antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cottage cheese, half and half, eggs, sour cream) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Raspberry Rice Elegance is a delicious dessert that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this treat in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Summary

Raspberry Rice Elegance is a delicious and elegant dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its creamy custard, tangy sour cream topping, and sweet raspberry sauce, this recipe is a perfect treat for any special occasion. Enjoy this dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea, she pulled out a worn, well-loved cookbook and flipped to a page marked with a faded bookmark.

"This is a recipe for Raspberry Rice Elegance," Martha said, her eyes shimmering with excitement. "It's one of my favorites, and I think you'll love it too."

I watched intently as Martha began to explain the steps to creating this delectable dessert. The combination of creamy rice pudding, tangy raspberries, and sweet whipped cream sounded like a match made in culinary heaven. I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

As Martha guided me through the process of making Raspberry Rice Elegance, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The scent of simmering rice and vanilla filled the air, transporting me back to my own grandmother's kitchen. She was a master in the art of cooking and baking, and I had spent countless hours by her side, learning her secrets and techniques.

I remember the way she would gently fold ingredients together, her hands moving with a grace and precision that only comes from years of practice. She never followed a recipe exactly, always adding a pinch of this or a splash of that to make it truly her own.

It was in her kitchen that I first fell in love with the magic of cooking. The way a handful of simple ingredients could be transformed into something extraordinary with just a little time and care. I carried her lessons with me throughout my life, passing them down to my own children and grandchildren.

As Martha and I put the finishing touches on the Raspberry Rice Elegance, I couldn't wait to taste the final result. The dish looked absolutely stunning, with the vibrant red raspberries peeking out from beneath a blanket of fluffy whipped cream. I knew it would be a hit with my family, a perfect dessert for our next gathering.

When we finally sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I took a bite of the Raspberry Rice Elegance and was instantly transported back to my grandmother's kitchen. The flavors were perfectly balanced, the textures creamy and light. It was a dish that tasted like home, like love and tradition all rolled into one.

As I savored each spoonful, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the many recipes and memories I had collected over the years. Each one was a piece of my culinary journey, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.

And so, as I sit here now, writing down the recipe for Raspberry Rice Elegance in my own well-loved cookbook, I can't help but smile. This dish is more than just a dessert – it's a piece of my history, a reminder of all the wonderful cooks and kitchens that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

I hope that one day, my grandchildren will read this recipe and feel the same sense of love and tradition that I do. I hope that they will gather in my kitchen, just as I did in my grandmother's, and create delicious meals and memories together.

For now, though, I will continue to cook and bake, to experiment and explore. Because for me, the joy of cooking lies not just in the end result, but in the process itself – in the moments spent with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal.

And so, as I close the pages of my cookbook, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes and experiences that have brought me to this moment. Raspberry Rice Elegance may be just one dish among many, but to me, it is a symbol of everything that is good and beautiful about the art of cooking.