Arroz con Leche Venezolano

🧂 Ingredients

• 1 cup White Rice(Long-grain white rice is recommended. Rinse thoroughly before use.)
• 4 cups Whole Milk(For a richer, creamier texture.)
• 150g Granulated Sugar(Adjust to your sweetness preference. Can be substituted with condensed milk for extra creaminess (see variations).)
• 2 Cinnamon Sticks(For infusing flavor into the pudding.)
• 2 cups Water(To pre-cook the rice and prevent it from sticking.)
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon(For topping, or to taste.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
2. 2

   In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed and the rice is partially cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes
3. 3

   Add the 4 cups of milk and the 2 cinnamon sticks to the saucepan with the partially cooked rice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the milk from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pot.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
4. 4

   Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, uncovered, stirring very frequently (every few minutes). Cook for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy, pudding-like consistency. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.

   ⏱️ 35 minutes
5. 5

   Stir in the granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is incorporated and the pudding reaches your desired creamy texture.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
6. 6

   Remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the cinnamon sticks. Let the arroz con leche cool slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

   ⏱️ 20 minutes
7. 7

   Transfer the arroz con leche to individual serving bowls or a larger serving dish. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.

   ⏱️ 2 hours (minimum chilling time)
8. 8

   Before serving, sprinkle the top of each portion with ground cinnamon to taste.

   ⏱️ 1 minute

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For an extra creamy texture, use whole milk and stir frequently during cooking.
• ✓Chilling is essential for the best flavor and texture. The pudding will thicken considerably as it cools.
• ✓This is a classic, comforting dessert enjoyed in many Venezuelan households.

🔄 Variations

• Add a handful of raisins during step 4 for a fruity twist.
• For an even richer and sweeter dessert, replace some or all of the granulated sugar with sweetened condensed milk, adding it in step 5 and adjusting sweetness to your liking.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving