How to Make Portuguese Sweet Rice Pudding

Leonor Santos Portuguese Sweet Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of whole milk
• 4 cups of water
• 2 cups of calrose rice
• 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk
• 2 boxes of instant lemon pudding
• 1 tbsp of butter
• 1 tsp of salt
• 1 lemon peel ( yellow only)
• Cinnamon to taste

Directions:

1. In a pot,add water, milk, salt, lemon peel and butter.
2. Once butter is melted, add rice.
3. Cook rice until cooked all the way through.
4. Once rice is cooked, add sweetened condensed milk and stir until well incorporated.
5. Add pudding one box at a time.
6. Mix well and remove the lemon peels.
7. Pour into a Pyrex and sprinkle with cinnamon on top.

Portuguese sweet rice pudding is a creamy, rice-based dessert infused with fragrant flavors and often served on special occasions or as a comforting treat.

To make Portuguese sweet rice pudding, short-grain rice is cooked in milk, sweetened with sugar, and flavored with ingredients such as cinnamon, lemon zest, and vanilla. The rice is gently simmered until it absorbs the milk and becomes tender, resulting in a creamy and luscious texture.

The dish has a long history in Portugal, dating back several centuries. It is believed to have been influenced by Moorish and Arab culinary traditions during the period of Arab rule in the Iberian Peninsula. Over time, it became an integral part of Portuguese cuisine and has been passed down through generations.

The preparation of Portuguese sweet rice pudding can vary slightly from region to region and even between families. Some variations may include the addition of egg yolks for extra richness or the use of condensed milk for a sweeter flavor. However, the core ingredients and techniques remain consistent.

Traditionally, Portuguese sweet rice pudding is served in individual bowls or a large communal dish, sprinkled with cinnamon on top. The cinnamon not only adds a warm and aromatic touch but also creates a beautiful contrast against the creamy white rice. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on personal preference.

The flavor profile of Portuguese sweet rice pudding is delicately sweet with hints of cinnamon and citrus. The creamy texture of the rice, combined with the aromatic spices, creates a comforting and satisfying dessert that is loved by people of all ages.

In Portugal, sweet rice pudding is commonly enjoyed during festive occasions such as Christmas, Easter, and weddings. It is also a staple dessert on Saint Anthony's Day, a popular festival celebrated in Lisbon and other parts of the country.

Portuguese sweet rice pudding has gained popularity beyond Portugal's borders and is appreciated by dessert enthusiasts worldwide. Its simple yet indulgent nature, combined with the cultural heritage it represents, has made it a cherished dessert that brings people together and evokes a sense of nostalgia.

Whether enjoyed as a dessert after a hearty Portuguese meal or as a standalone treat, Portuguese sweet rice pudding offers a delightful experience that showcases the country's culinary traditions and the warmth of its people.

Video Credit: Angela Castro- The Olive Branch

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