Rice Pudding II

Bangladeshi Rice Pudding II Recipe with Saffron and Rosewater

Region / culture: Bangladesh | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Rice pudding is a classic dessert enjoyed by many cultures around the world. This creamy and comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a special celebration. In this recipe, we will be making a delicious and aromatic version of rice pudding that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Rice pudding has been enjoyed for centuries and can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Romans and Greeks. It is a versatile dish that has been adapted and modified by different cultures over time. In some cultures, rice pudding is served as a sweet treat, while in others it is enjoyed as a savory dish. Regardless of its variations, rice pudding remains a beloved comfort food for many people around the world.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of water
2 cups of whole milk
0.5 cups of basmati rice
0.5 cups of cream
1 cup of sugar
1 or 2 pinches of saffron
1 tsp of rosewater
2 tbsp of pistachios

How to prepare

Wash the rice for 3 or 4 cycles until the water is nearly clear. It is very important to thoroughly wash basmati rice in order to achieve a light and fluffy texture, otherwise it will turn out mushy.
Place the uncooked rice and saffron in a 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan, and add water.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
Add the milk and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Once the mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency, add the sugar and cream.
Continue cooking for another 0.5 hour.
To serve, add rose water and pistachios.

Variations

Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thoroughly wash the basmati rice before cooking to achieve a light and fluffy texture.

- Stir the pudding occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the sweetness of the pudding by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.

- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat milk and cream in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the rice pudding warm or chilled, garnished with additional pistachios and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the rice pudding on low heat to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

- Stir the pudding occasionally to ensure even cooking and a smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use jasmine or long-grain rice if basmati rice is not available.

- Substitute almond or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

- Replace pistachios with almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the rice pudding ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the rice pudding in individual bowls or ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground pistachios or a drizzle of honey for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this creamy rice pudding with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it for a few minutes or warm it on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Calcium: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 4% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (milk, cream) and nuts (pistachios)

Summary

This rice pudding recipe is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a good amount of protein, calcium, and iron. However, it may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

This aromatic and creamy rice pudding is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and comforting flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy the sweet and nutty taste of this delicious rice pudding with every spoonful!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Rice Pudding II. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside. My mother had tasked me with preparing dessert for our family dinner, and as I rummaged through her old recipe box, I came across a weathered piece of paper with a handwritten recipe titled "Rice Pudding II."

Curiosity piqued, I eagerly set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions to create this mysterious dish. As the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafted through the kitchen, I could hardly contain my excitement. Would this rice pudding be a hit with my family, or would it end up being a culinary disaster?

To my delight, the rice pudding turned out to be a resounding success. Creamy, comforting, and just the right amount of sweetness – it was a hit with everyone at the dinner table. My mother beamed with pride at my newfound culinary skills, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our family for years to come.

But the story of how I learned to make Rice Pudding II doesn't end there. Over the years, I continued to perfect and tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. And along the way, I learned about the origins of this beloved dish and the many people who had shared their own versions of it with me.

One of my fondest memories of learning to make Rice Pudding II was during a visit to my dear friend Martha's house. Martha was a wonderful cook, and her rice pudding was legendary in our small village. As we sat together in her cozy kitchen, she shared with me the secrets of her recipe – her special blend of spices, the perfect ratio of milk to rice, and the key to achieving that creamy consistency.

I listened intently, soaking up every word as Martha passed down her knowledge to me. She told me stories of how she had learned to make rice pudding from her own grandmother, who had brought the recipe with her from the old country many years ago. It was a recipe steeped in tradition and passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique flair to make it their own.

As I left Martha's house that day, armed with her invaluable tips and tricks, I couldn't wait to put them to the test in my own kitchen. And sure enough, with Martha's guidance, my rice pudding reached new heights of deliciousness. The flavors were richer, the texture silkier, and the memories of our time together in the kitchen made each bite taste even sweeter.

But the most special part of learning to make Rice Pudding II was the bond it created between me and the people who had shared their recipes with me. Each time I made the dish, I felt a connection to my mother, Martha, and all the other cooks who had passed down their love of cooking to me. And as I served the rice pudding to my own family and friends, I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that had been cherished for generations.

So the next time you sit down to enjoy a bowl of Rice Pudding II, savor each spoonful and remember that behind every recipe lies a story waiting to be told. And who knows – perhaps one day, you'll pass down your own version of this beloved dish to someone special, creating new memories and traditions for generations to come.