Citrus Rice Pudding
Maple Orange Rice Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional rice pudding, infusing the classic comfort food with the rich flavors of maple syrup and the bright zest of orange. This dish, while rooted in the simple, homey essence of rice pudding that spans many cultures and cuisines, adopts a distinctly North American flair with the use of maple syrup, a ingredient in Canadian and northeastern American cooking. Serving up to 6 people, this version employs either brown or white jasmine or basmati rice, combined with whole milk or a nondairy alternative, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and a choice of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, all topped with a dash of nutmeg. The rice is first simmered until tender, then baked in a sweet custard mixture, resulting in a creamy, aromatic dessert. The taste of Maple Orange Rice Pudding is a harmonious blend of the comforting texture of rice pudding with the warm depth of maple syrup and the refreshing hint of orange, making it a unique desserts.
- ½ cup Brown or White Jasmine
- 2¼ cup Whole Milk
- 6 tbsp Maple Syrup
- 3 Large Eggs
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- ¾ tsp Grated Orange Zest
- ⅛ tsp Kosher Salt
- ¾ cup Dried Cranberries
- ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
- Rice Foundation
Start by boiling a cup of water in a small saucepan. Once rolling, mix rice, stirring softly as you shift to a simmer. Lower the flames to a whisper, cover, and let the rice drink up all the water - about 30 minutes for the hearty brown grains and 20 for the delicate white. Afterward, let it rest under cover, then fluff it into life with a fork.
- Oven Prep
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). With a tender touch, butter an 8-inch square glass baking dish, setting a cozy stage for your pudding.
- Custard Creation
In a bowl, whisk together the milk's richness with the deep sweetness of maple syrup, the eggs, a splash of vanilla, the zest of an orange for a citrusy whisper, and a pinch of salt for balance. Bring the cranberries and the prepared rice into this mixture, then tenderly pour it all into your buttered dish. A sprinkle of nutmeg on top will add the final spice kiss.
- Bain-Marie Bath
Boil a kettle of water to create a gentle bath for your pudding. Set the baking dish snugly inside a larger roasting pan, then carefully pour in the hot water to come halfway up its sides, creating a warm embrace for even cooking.
- Baking to Perfection
Bake this harmonious blend until the heart of the pudding sets, about 1 hour, revealing its readiness to a knife's gentle inquiry. Lift the dish from its water bath and let it breathe on a wire rack, cooling for at least 15 minutes to let flavors to meld.
