Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the pudding bakes evenly, so don’t skip this step.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of dry white rice, cover, and decrease the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Once the water is absorbed, remove it from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- While your rice is cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the 3 lightly beaten eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Incorporate the Rice
- Once the rice has cooled a bit, gently fold it into the custard mixture until evenly distributed. This harmonious blend is where the magic starts.
Step 5: Add Raisins and Spices
- Stir in the ⅓ cup of golden raisins and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. The raisins add a touch of sweetness and texture that complements the creamy base perfectly.
Step 6: Butter the Baking Dish
- Grease a 2-quart baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. This will help the pudding release easily once baked.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Now it's time to let the oven do its work! Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is set and browned. You can gently shake the dish; if it jiggles slightly in the center, that’s just perfect.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Notes
- Choose the Right Rice: Short-grain rice works best due to its starch content, which creates that creamy texture.
- Experiment with Milk: For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Add Fruits: Try incorporating cherries or cranberries for an exciting twist.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow it to bake until it’s golden brown. Patience is key.
- Top It Off: Finish with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
