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Creamy Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Saffron Recipe

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4.4 from 41 reviews

This creamy and comforting rice pudding is a deliciously simple dessert made with milk, fragrant basmati rice, and subtly sweetened with organic cane or coconut sugar. Enhanced with a pinch of cardamom and the delicate aroma of saffron, this recipe can easily be adapted to a dairy-free version using almond milk. Garnish with slivered almonds, pistachios, and raisins for a delightful texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complement the rich, silky pudding.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
  • ¼ cup Basmati rice
  • 3 tablespoons organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
  • Pinch of cardamom powder
  • 5 strands of saffron (optional)

Optional Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
  • 2 tablespoons pistachios
  • 2 tablespoons raisins

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps achieve a creamy but not overly sticky pudding texture.
  2. Cook the Rice in Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of milk (or almond milk if making dairy-free). Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from scorching at the bottom.
  3. Add Sweetener and Flavorings: Once the rice softens and the milk begins to thicken, approximately after 20 minutes, stir in the organic cane or coconut sugar, pinch of cardamom powder, and saffron strands if using. Continue to simmer and stir frequently to allow flavors to meld and pudding to thicken to a creamy consistency, usually another 10-15 minutes.
  4. Finish and Cool: When the pudding is creamy and the rice is tender, remove from heat. Let the rice pudding cool slightly; it will thicken further as it cools.
  5. Serve with Toppings: Spoon the pudding into serving bowls and garnish with slivered almonds, pistachios, and raisins for added texture and flavor. Serve warm or chilled based on preference.

Notes

  • Use almond milk to make this recipe dairy-free and suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Rinsing the rice before cooking helps create a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Gently simmering and frequent stirring prevents milk from burning and ensures even cooking.
  • Saffron adds a luxurious aroma and slight color but is optional and can be omitted.
  • Adjust sweetness according to taste, substituting sugar alternatives if preferred.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/creamy-rice-pudding-with-cardamom-and-saffron-recipe/