There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of chai-spiced rice pudding. This dessert, with its rich and creamy texture, filled with the aromatic spices of chai, is a delight that my family has come to adore. The first time I made it, I was pleasantly surprised by how the spices perfectly complemented the sweet creaminess of the pudding. It quickly became a family favorite, with everyone eagerly anticipating the warm, spicy-sweet aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks. Each spoonful is like a cozy hug, making it the perfect dessert for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

To create this delectable treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of basmati rice
• 4 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
• Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Creating chai-spiced rice pudding is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a dessert that’s sure to impress:

1. Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial in removing excess starch, which could otherwise make the pudding too sticky.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, whole milk, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Once the rice begins to soften, usually after about 20 minutes, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and all the spices. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.
4. If you are using raisins, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They will plump up and add a delightful chewiness to the pudding.
5. Once the pudding is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
6. Serve the pudding warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves 6 people. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories. The calorie count may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and any optional additions like nuts or raisins.

Preparation Time

The preparation time for chai-spiced rice pudding is about 10 minutes, with an additional cooking time of approximately 40 minutes. This brings the total time to just under an hour, making it a relatively quick dessert to prepare while still delivering on flavor and comfort.

How to Serve

• Serve warm for a comforting winter treat.
• Chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing summer dessert.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Sprinkle with a pinch of extra cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an à la mode experience.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your chai-spiced rice pudding turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor of your pudding, making it more aromatic and flavorful.
2. Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preference. Less sugar will allow the spices to shine more.
3. Experiment with milk: For a richer flavor, try substituting part of the milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
4. Don’t rush the process: Cook the pudding slowly over low heat to prevent burning and ensure the rice is cooked through.
5. Stir frequently: This will prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and help achieve a creamy consistency.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about chai-spiced rice pudding:

1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use other varieties like jasmine or arborio rice, but the cooking time and liquid ratio may need to be adjusted.
2. Is it necessary to soak the rice? Soaking is not required, but rinsing the rice thoroughly is important to remove excess starch.
3. Can I make this pudding dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute the milk and cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
4. How long will the pudding keep? Store the pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
5. Can I freeze rice pudding? Yes, you can freeze rice pudding, but be aware that the texture may change slightly. Thaw it in the fridge and stir well before serving.