Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Start by rinsing your jasmine or basmati rice. This essential step removes excess starch, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy. Place the rinsed rice into a large pot with the filtered water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You want the rice to absorb most of the water. After the time is up, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a separate large bowl, mix the half-and-half, evaporated milk, melted butter, brown sugar, and whisked eggs. Whisk until smooth. The magic starts here as flavors intermingle.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Milk Mixture
- Add the cooked rice to your milk mixture. Stir well to ensure each grain is coated. This is where the pudding begins to take shape.
Step 5: Add Flavorings
- Next, incorporate the sea salt, vanilla extract, lemon zest, nutmeg, and orange blossom or rose water. Stir gently. Here, the aroma will tease your senses and leave you eager for what’s next.
Step 6: Cook on Low Heat
- Pour everything back into the pot and cook over low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. The mixture will thicken, transforming into luscious pudding.
Step 7: Add Raisins
- In the final minutes of cooking, fold in the golden raisins. These will plump and sweeten, creating delightful pockets of flavor as you enjoy every spoonful.
Step 8: Serve
- Once you’ve reached your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for a touch of elegance.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh half-and-half and evaporated milk make a noticeable difference in flavor and creaminess.
- Experiment with Sweeteners: Feel free to swap brown sugar for alternatives like maple syrup or coconut sugar for a unique twist.
- Stir Frequently: This dish can stick to the pot if not stirred. Keep an eye on it while cooking.
- Chill for Best Flavor: While it’s delightful warm, refrigerating for a few hours allows flavors to meld even more richly.
- Top It Off: Serve with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra sweetness.
