Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Arroz Con Leche Ingredients

Arroz Con Leche Instructions

  1. Place the Arborio rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold running water, agitating the rice with your fingers, until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, the split vanilla bean and its seeds, the cinnamon stick, the strip of lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt.
  3. Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, about 25-30 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick, lemon zest, and vanilla bean pod.
  5. Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup golden raisins to the saucepan. Stir well until the sugar and butter are fully dissolved and incorporated.
  6. Pour in 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk and continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for another 5-10 minutes until the pudding is creamy and thickened to your liking.
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the pudding cool for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
  8. Transfer the arroz con leche to a large serving bowl or individual dishes. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until well chilled.
  9. Before serving, sprinkle each portion with ground cinnamon and toasted slivered almonds for garnish.

Estimated Calories: 206, Servings: 6

Recommended Dishes

Arroz Con Leche Tips

For those seeking the best homemade dessert, this authentic Argentinian rice pudding recipe stands out for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Achieving the perfect consistency in Arroz Con Leche requires patience; slow simmering allows the rice to absorb the milk fully, resulting in a delicious and velvety finish. Using whole milk is a key tip for a more indulgent taste, while stirring frequently prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
To make this easy and quick recipe even tastier, consider infusing the milk with citrus zest or a cinnamon stick during cooking. This simple addition enhances the aroma and depth of flavor, making the dish truly memorable. For those wondering how to make the best version, using high-quality ingredients is essential. Fresh dairy and fragrant spices elevate the overall experience, ensuring a tasty and authentic result every time.
Serving Arroz Con Leche chilled or at room temperature allows the flavors to meld, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. For a homemade touch, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top before serving. These tips guarantee a simple yet delicious treat that captures the essence of Argentinian tradition.

Arroz Con Leche Pairings

The best flavors to accompany Arroz Con Leche often include warm spices and subtle citrus notes. A good pairing might be a sprinkle of cinnamon or a touch of nutmeg, which can enhance the dessert's creamy sweetness. Some people find that a quick zest of orange or lemon adds a delicious brightness, making the overall experience more refreshing. These flavor additions are easy to incorporate and can elevate the dish, making it a great choice for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent treat.
When considering drinks to serve with Arroz Con Leche, a fast and easy option is a cup of strong coffee or espresso, which balances the dessert's richness. For a non-alcoholic choice, a spiced chai or herbal tea can be a good match, offering complementary flavors without overpowering the dish. Those looking for something a bit more festive might opt for a sweet dessert wine, which can be a great way to round out the meal and highlight the best qualities of the recipe.
As for sides, fresh fruit is a delicious and healthy addition that pairs well with Arroz Con Leche. Slices of ripe mango, berries, or even a quick fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the dessert. Another good option is a small serving of toasted nuts, which adds a bit of crunch and makes the overall presentation more appealing. These sides are easy to prepare and can turn a simple dessert into a great, well-rounded meal.

Arroz Con Leche Story

In the early days of preparing this dish, the cook often rushed through the process, believing that a quick approach would yield a fast and easy result. However, this haste led to a texture that was far from the best, with the final product turning out uneven and lacking the creamy consistency that makes the dish so appealing. The cook realized that even a recipe labeled as easy or quick still requires attention to detail and patience. This experience highlighted the importance of respecting each step, no matter how simple it may seem.
Another common mistake involved substituting ingredients in an attempt to make the dish more healthy. While the intention was good, the result was not always delicious. The cook learned that some recipes rely on specific components to achieve their signature flavor and texture. Through trial and error, it became clear that balancing health considerations with authenticity is crucial. This lesson encouraged a more thoughtful approach to modifying recipes, ensuring that the end result remains satisfying and true to its origins.
Over time, these missteps led to a greater appreciation for the process and a deeper understanding of the dish itself. The cook discovered that following the recipe closely and allowing enough time for each stage produced a great outcome. Mistakes became valuable learning opportunities, shaping a more mindful and skilled approach in the kitchen. Ultimately, these experiences transformed the way the cook approached not only this dish but also other culinary endeavors, always striving for the best possible result.

Arroz Con Leche History

Arroz con leche holds a special place in Argentinian culture, tracing its roots to Spanish colonial influences. The dish became a staple in Argentinian households, often served during family gatherings and festive occasions. Its enduring popularity is a testament to how a simple, easy recipe can become a symbol of comfort and tradition. Many Argentinians recall fond memories of their grandmothers preparing this delicious dessert, making it a great example of how food can connect generations and preserve cultural identity.
Over time, the recipe for arroz con leche in Argentina has evolved to suit local tastes and available ingredients. While the original Spanish version was already quite good, Argentinians adapted it by incorporating regional flavors and techniques. Some modern versions use quick cooking methods or substitute ingredients to make the process faster and more convenient for busy families. This evolution demonstrates how a classic dish can remain relevant and accessible, while still retaining its best qualities and nostalgic appeal.
Regional adaptations across Argentina have led to a variety of unique takes on arroz con leche. In some provinces, people add citrus zest or a splash of local liqueur to enhance the flavor, while others might serve it chilled for a refreshing treat during hot summers. These adaptations show how a healthy respect for tradition can coexist with creativity, resulting in a range of delicious options that cater to different preferences. The versatility of this dessert has made it a fast favorite not only in Argentina but also in neighboring countries, influencing their own versions of the recipe.

About Arroz Con Leche Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best homemade dessert, look no further than this authentic Argentinian Arroz Con Leche recipe. This creamy, dreamy rice pudding is the ultimate comfort food, and it's so easy to whip up that even your pet goldfish could probably follow along (if only they had thumbs). The secret to the perfect Arroz Con Leche lies in the simple ingredients: rice, milk, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. With just a few steps, you'll learn how to make a quick and delicious treat that'll have everyone asking for seconds-and maybe even thirds.
What makes this recipe stand out from the rest? It's all about those tasty tips and tricks that transform a basic rice pudding into the best Argentinian dessert you've ever tasted. Want to know how to make it extra creamy? Use whole milk and let the rice simmer slowly, absorbing all that milky goodness. Looking for a quick fix? This easy recipe doesn't require any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients-just a pot, a spoon, and a little patience (or a lot, if you're really hungry). The result is a delicious, authentic dish that's both simple and satisfying.
Don't be surprised if your kitchen starts smelling like an Argentinian bakery while you're making this homemade Arroz Con Leche. The combination of cinnamon and sweet milk is basically an edible hug. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a total newbie, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy the best, most authentic, and perfectly tasty rice pudding you've ever made. And remember, the only thing better than eating Arroz Con Leche is bragging about how easy it was to make!