The allure of Mexican rice pudding, also known as arroz con leche, lies in its unique blend of comforting flavors. This traditional Spanish dessert is often served as a sweet treat or a satisfying breakfast option. The addition of cinnamon adds a warm and inviting touch to this creamy delight.
While the combination of milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk might evoke memories of tres leches cake, in this recipe, they come together with rice, vanilla, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to create a truly scrumptious Mexican rice pudding. This comforting dessert is perfect for savoring after a hearty bowl of chili, accompanied by your favorite toppings. Alternatively, you could pair it with smoked street corn elote or even create a show-stopping chili charcuterie board.
If you’re looking for another sweet treat to indulge in, consider sheet pan buttermilk pancakes – a delightful accompaniment to this Mexican rice pudding recipe.
How to Make Arroz con Leche
While canned Mexican rice pudding might be an easy option, it can’t compare to the authentic flavor and aroma of this traditional Spanish comfort food. With a little effort, you can create a delicious and creamy arroz con leche that will transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Mexico. So why settle for mediocrity when you can make something truly special? Let’s get started!
Dishes Suitable for Dessert or Breakfast
When it comes to breakfast and dessert, you might think that there’s a clear divide between the two. However, some foods can easily bridge the gap. Take yogurt, for instance – when topped with fresh fruit, it makes for a delicious dessert, while adding granola or nuts transforms it into a satisfying breakfast option. Similarly, fruit cups, crepes, and pancakes are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day.Of course, some dishes remain firmly rooted in their traditional roles, such as bacon and eggs, which will always be morning fare. But others can easily adapt to different occasions. A blueberry muffin recipe, for example, could just as well be served as a snack or dessert as it is at breakfast.Mexican rice pudding is another great example of a dish that transcends traditional meal boundaries. This creamy, sweet treat is hearty enough to start the day off on a positive note, while its rich flavors also make it an excellent choice for dessert. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to prepare and keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can grab it and go at any time.
Mexican Rice Pudding FAQs
When planning ahead with this Mexican-style rice pudding recipe, you can rest assured that it will retain its creamy texture for up to 4 days when refrigerated. Alternatively, you can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy after freezing, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give the mixture a good stir before serving. If you find your rice pudding has become too thick during cooking, don’t worry – this is a common occurrence. The addition of milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk will naturally cause the pudding to thicken significantly. As it simmers, you may notice the consistency becomes thicker still. Fear not, however, as this dessert or breakfast treat shouldn’t be watery thin but nor should it become solid. If it thickens beyond your liking, simply add a splash of milk or cream and stir well to achieve the desired consistency.
Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche Recipe
Mexican Rice Pudding – Arroz Con Leche
Mexican rice pudding, also known as arroz con leche, is a beloved traditional Spanish dish that’s just as satisfying to enjoy for breakfast as it is for dessert. The addition of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting touch to this creamy treat. With its rich flavor profile, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned a special place in many hearts. To prepare this delightful dessert or breakfast option, you’ll need only 5 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook, making the total time commitment a manageable 50 minutes. This recipe serves 12 people, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Instructions
To prepare the rice pudding, start by rinsing the rice thoroughly in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Then, combine the rice with the cinnamon stick and water in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is soft and tender. Be gentle when stirring the rice to prevent it from breaking, as excessive agitation can cause the grains to become mushy. Once the rice has cooked, add in the three types of milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Return the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the pudding to thicken and come together. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit until the pudding has reached your desired level of thickness. Allow the pudding to cool before refrigerating it, and serve at room temperature or chilled. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top or mix in some plump raisins for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Notes
As the mixture simmers, allowing the three types of milk to blend harmoniously together, a remarkable transformation takes place. The more time that passes, the richer and thicker the concoction becomes, as the boiling process extracts and concentrates the natural properties of the dairy components.