Creamy Rice Pudding

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for creamy rice pudding:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of rice (preferably Arborio rice or any short-grain rice)
• 4 cups of milk (you can use whole milk for extra creaminess or any milk alternative)
• 1/4 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
• A pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.

2. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, add the rinsed rice, 2 cups of milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

3. Simmer: Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and has absorbed much of the milk.

4. Add remaining milk and sugar: Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Continue to cook on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy pudding-like consistency.

5. Optional – Add egg yolk: For extra richness, you can whisk an egg yolk in a small bowl and slowly temper it by adding a little bit of the hot pudding mixture into the yolk, then stir it back into the pudding. This step adds extra creaminess to the texture.

6. Finish and flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and let the pudding sit for a few minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

7. Serve: Serve warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few raisins if you like.

Enjoy your creamy, comforting rice pudding!