Arroz Con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
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Arroz Con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
Description
This Arroz Con Leche recipe begins by boiling rice in water infused with cinnamon sticks and lime peel, which impart warm, spiced, and slightly citrusy notes to the rice. After partially cooking the rice, a blend of whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk is added and simmered uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent overflow and ensure creaminess. The slow cooking process produces a thick, tender pudding.
The use of cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon enhances flavor depth, while the lime peel adds a brisk contrast to the sweetness from the condensed milk. Optional raisins may be stirred in after cooking for added texture and sweetness. The pudding can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it versatile for different preferences and occasions.
Rinsing the rice beforehand removes excess starch to avoid overly dense texture. Letting the pudding rest about 30 minutes after cooking helps achieve the ideal creamy consistency. Careful attention is needed during simmering to prevent boiling over, ensuring a smooth finish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 can evaporated milk 12 oz
- 1 can condensed milk 12 oz
- 3 cups of water
- ⅛ tsp kosher salt
- lime peel peel of one lime
- 2 ticks cinnamon see note #1
- 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed well see note #2
- ½ cup raisins optional
- ground cinnamon optional, for dusting
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan add the 3 milks and keep warm over low heat.
- In a separate large saucepan, add the 3 cups of water, salt, lime peel, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil for a couple of minutes.
- Add the rice and reduce the heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring once or twice. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Add the warm milk mixture over the rice, stir, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes (uncovered), stirring occasionally.
- Note: Keep an eye on it to make sure the rice doesn’t flow over.…I cannot stress this part enough!
- Turn off the heat and remove the cinnamon sticks & lime peel. If adding raisins, add them at this point. Let it cool slightly for about 30 minutes.
- The Arroz con Leche can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold.
Notes
- Use cinnamon sticks whenever possible for a stronger, fuller cinnamon flavor; ground cinnamon can be a substitute if needed.
- Well-rinse the rice to remove excess starch and prevent the pudding from becoming dense or sticky.
- Boiling cinnamon sticks briefly with water helps release their flavor more effectively.
- Allow the pudding to rest about 30 minutes after cooking to develop the perfect creamy texture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 298 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 12cup | |
| Calories | 298kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 44g | 15% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 22mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 145mg | 6% |
| Sugar | 33g | 66% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.