Appetizer & Dessert

Mexican Rice Pudding Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Name: Mexican Rice Pudding Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice – uncooked and raw; 2 cups filtered water; 4 1/4 cups milk – 2% or whole for creaminess; 1 cinnamon stick – feel free to add 1-2 more for extra warmth; A pinch of sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar – or adjust to taste; Ground cinnamon – for serving; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Willie Regan December 26, 2024

Servings: 8 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

Before diving into the delightful world of Mexican rice pudding, it’s essential to consider what you might want to pair with this creamy goodness. Mexican rice pudding, known as Arroz con Leche, stands alone in its richness, but serving it alongside a few other items can truly elevate the experience.

A cup of Mexican hot chocolate adds a warm, spiced note that complements the pudding’s creamy texture. The drink’s cocoa richness can contrast beautifully with the pudding’s sweetness. If you’re looking for something crunchy, a handful of cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips provides a playful texture.

For those desiring a lighter option, a fresh fruit salad featuring citrus fruits, like oranges and pineapple, can offer a refreshing bite that cuts through the creaminess of the pudding. Finally, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream; it’s a delightful way to serve Arroz con Leche for dessert, turning it into a hybrid treat.

With these pairings in mind, let’s dig into the recipe.

What is Mexican Rice Pudding?

Mexican rice pudding, or Arroz con Leche, is a traditional dessert that many families hold dear. This dish combines rice, milk, sugar, and a few key flavorings. It’s a cozy treat that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

The pudding is creamy, with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla that brings warmth to your soul. It’s often garnished with additional cinnamon and sometimes even raisins, making it a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe is simple due to its few ingredients. The combination of rice and milk allows it to become creamy and rich, while the added cinnamon and vanilla elevate the overall taste.

I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years, ensuring it’s both easy to make and delightful to consume. The balance of sweetness and the light zesty touch from the orange zest makes this pudding irresistible.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gathering your ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Mexican rice pudding:

1 cup long-grain white rice – uncooked and raw
2 cups filtered water
4 1/4 cups milk – either 2% or whole for creaminess
1 cinnamon stick – feel free to add 1-2 more for extra warmth
A pinch of sea salt
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar – or adjust to taste
Ground cinnamon – for serving
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

These ingredients come together to create a beautifully textured dessert that’s a sweet embrace in a bowl.

How to Make Mexican Rice Pudding

Making Mexican rice pudding is relatively straightforward. Its charm lies in simmering the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld. Let’s move on to the detailed step-by-step process.

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the uncooked rice thoroughly under cold water. This process removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming gummy. You’ll want to rinse it until the water runs clear, about two or three times. This is a vital step to achieve the desired texture.

Step 2: Boil the Rice

In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice and filtered water. Bring this mix to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the rice to soften and absorb the water.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cinnamon

After the rice has absorbed most of the water, stir in the milk, cinnamon stick, salt, and vanilla extract. Increase the heat slightly, and let it simmer gently. This step allows the flavors to meld, and you’ll start to see the mixture thicken.

Step 4: Sweeten the Mixture

Once your pudding starts to thicken, it’s time to add the sugar. Use one cup to start, and adjust based on your personal preference. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. You can always taste at this point and see if you’d like it sweeter.

Step 5: Add Zest and Raisins

Now, fold in the orange zest and raisins or dried cranberries. These ingredients add a fun pop of flavor and texture. Let everything simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes. The pudding should be thick, creamy, and divine.

Step 6: Serve Warm or Chill

You can choose to enjoy your rice pudding warm right off the stove or transfer it to a serving dish to cool in the refrigerator. If opting for the latter, let it chill for at least an hour before serving. Either way, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist.

Tips

Here are several tips to enhance your experience:

Use High-Quality Milk: The richness of the milk contributes to the pudding’s creaminess. Whole milk or evaporated milk gives excellent results.
Experiment with Sweetness: The sweetness of the dish can be adjusted based on personal taste. Start with less sugar and gradually add more.
Spice Variety: In addition to cinnamon, consider adding a hint of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
Let it Rest: Allowing the pudding to rest for a few hours or overnight can deepen the flavors and improve texture.
Presentation Matters: Serve in beautiful bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few raisins or cranberries for a lovely finish.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you find yourself with extra rice pudding, don’t fret! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir as it may thicken further in the fridge. If it’s too thick, adding a splash of milk will bring back its creamy texture.

How Would I Recommend Serving Mexican Rice Pudding?

Here are some delightful serving suggestions that truly elevate the experience of Arroz con Leche:

Top with Fresh Fruit: Adding slices of fresh mango or strawberries can provide a refreshing contrast. The fruit’s acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
Infuse with Coconut: Adding shredded coconut on top gives a tropical twist. It adds texture and delightful flavor without overwhelming the pudding.
Drizzle with Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of natural sweeteners can enhance the sweetness. It’s an excellent way to make your dessert a touch more decadent.
Garnish with Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a nice crunch. It introduces another layer, adding protein and healthy fats to your dish.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Sometimes, you just can’t find all the ingredients. Here are some alternatives:

Rice: Jasmine rice works as a perfect substitute for long-grain rice, offering a slightly floral aroma while maintaining the delightful chewiness.
Milk: Almond milk or coconut milk are excellent dairy alternatives. They can lend a unique flavor and make the pudding dairy-free.
Sugar: Honey or agave syrup can replace granulated sugar. These natural sweeteners can provide a different flavor profile, especially honey.
Raisins: If you don’t have raisins, dried apricots or even dark chocolate chips can add a delightful twist. The chocolate and apricot pair surprisingly well with the pudding’s flavors.

Conclusion

Mexican rice pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a touch of warmth that can bring a sense of home to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also fills the room with comforting aromas. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and perhaps share it with family and friends. Celebrate the love of cooking by making memories around the table.

Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed on a quiet evening, this pudding is bound to bring joy. So roll up your sleeves and let your kitchen echo with laughter and stories, just like my grandmother’s used to. Enjoy every bite!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

Mexican Rice Pudding Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes

Author: Willie Regan Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 40 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 261 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Growing up in a multicultural kitchen, I often witnessed the magic of combining different ingredients to create something unique. One of my fond memories revolves around making Mexican rice pudding.

With each bite, I recalled my grandmother's laughter, the gentle whirling of a whisk, and that unforgettable aroma that filled my home. Mexican rice pudding is more than a dessert; it reflects culture, family, and comfort. It’s easy to make, and trust me, the effort is unbelievably rewarding.