Bariis Cadde iyo Malawax Macaan (Sweet White Rice Pudding)
A comforting and subtly sweet rice pudding, often enjoyed as a dessert or a light breakfast in Somalia. This version is creamy and fragrant, infused with cardamom and vanilla.
🧂 Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Basmati rice
- 4 cups Milk
- 0.5 cup Sugar(or to taste)
- 4 whole Cardamom pods(lightly crushed)
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
- Ground cinnamon(for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of milk, sugar, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and salt. Stir to combine.
- 3
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- 4
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring more frequently as it thickens, until the rice is tender and the pudding has reached your desired consistency.
- 5
Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk and the vanilla extract. If using raisins, add them now.
- 6
Continue to simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding is creamy and thick. Be careful not to let it scorch.
- 7
Remove from heat. Remove the whole spices (cardamom pods and cinnamon stick) if desired.
- 8
Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer pudding, you can use a mix of milk and cream.
- ✓Adjust the sugar to your preference. You can also use honey or other sweeteners.
- ✓If the pudding becomes too thick, stir in a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of butter or ghee for extra richness.
- Incorporate other flavorings like orange blossom water or rose water.
- Top with chopped nuts, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of honey.