Arroz Doce
A classic Portuguese rice pudding, Arroz Doce, is a comforting and festive dessert. It's traditionally decorated with a beautiful cinnamon pattern, making it a popular choice for celebrations and holidays.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Arborio or medium-grain rice
- 1 L Whole milk
- 200 g Granulated sugar
- 4 Egg yolks
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 strip Lemon peel
- 500 ml Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming gummy.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 500ml of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender.
⏱️ 17 minutes - 3
Pour in the milk and add the strip of lemon peel (if using) and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring often, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 5
While the pudding is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the granulated sugar until pale and slightly fluffy. This tempering process prevents the yolks from scrambling when added to the hot pudding.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually ladle about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk and sugar mixture, whisking constantly. This further tempers the yolks.
- 7
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the pudding, whisking continuously. Return the saucepan to very low heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding is heated through and slightly thicker. Do not boil.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 8
Remove the lemon peel (if used). Pour the Arroz Doce into individual serving bowls or a single larger serving dish. Let it cool slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 9
Once slightly cooled, sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon. Use a toothpick or the tip of a spoon to create traditional decorative patterns, such as swirls, lines, or even a simple star. Serve warm or chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother texture, you can strain the pudding after adding the egg yolks, though this is not traditional.
- ✓Arroz Doce can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It thickens further as it cools.
- ✓The cinnamon decoration is not just for aesthetics; it adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a strip of lemon or orange zest to the milk while it simmers for a citrusy note.
- For an egg-free version, omit the egg yolks. The pudding will be slightly less rich but still delicious.