Arroz con Leche

Ingredients

For the Pudding

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cinnamon stick (approx. 3 inches)
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• Ground cinnamon for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 2: Add Milks

Remove the cinnamon stick (or leave it if you prefer stronger flavor, but remove before serving). Stir in the whole milk and sweetened condensed milk. Increase heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer

Cook, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency, about 20-25 minutes. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 4: Finish

Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins (if using). Remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm or chilled. Dust generously with ground cinnamon before serving.

Chef's Tips

• Stir Often: Milk can easily scorch on the bottom of the pan, so keep stirring, especially as it thickens.
• Consistency: If the pudding becomes too thick after cooling, stir in a little extra milk to loosen it up.
• Rinsing Rice: Some people prefer to rinse the rice first to remove excess starch, but for pudding, the starch helps create a creamy texture, so it's up to you.

Variations

• Citrus: Add a strip of orange or lime peel while cooking the rice for a citrusy note. Remove before serving.
• Coconut: Substitute half the whole milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Vegan: Use almond milk and coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free version.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Arroz con Leche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can be eaten cold or reheated gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

Nutritional Information

Per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 110mg