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Traditional Arroz con Leche

2022-10-31

By Latin Foodie

Latin American Cuisine

Dessert

3 Quick and Easy Ways to Make Arroz con Leche: Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, and Air Fryer

How to Make Creamy Arroz con Leche in the Slow Cooker Without Constant Stirring

Use the slow cooker's "low" setting to gently cook your arroz con leche. Combine rice, milk, sugar, and spices, and let the slow cooker work its magic over several hours. This method gives you a creamy, perfectly thickened rice pudding without having to stir constantly.

Make Arroz con Leche in Minutes with the Instant Pot: Pressure Cooked to Perfection

The Instant Pot’s "pressure cook" function is perfect for making arroz con leche in a fraction of the time. Simply combine rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, and cook on high pressure for a quick, creamy dessert. The "saute" function can also be used for a final simmer to adjust the consistency if needed.

Add a Crispy, Caramelized Topping to Your Arroz con Leche Using the Air Fryer

After preparing your arroz con leche, use the air fryer to create a crispy topping. Sprinkle some sugar over the rice pudding and pop it in the air fryer to caramelize the sugar, adding a delicious crunchy layer to contrast the creamy base.

Tips and Suggestions on Arroz con Leche

Cooking the Rice

The key to making great Arroz con Leche is to cook the rice until it is tender and has absorbed all of the liquid. Use whole milk and cinnamon sticks to infuse the rice with flavor. Be sure to stir the rice frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Adding the Sugar

Adding the right amount of sugar can be challenging when making Arroz con Leche. Start with a small amount of sugar, taste it, and add more as needed. Keep in mind that the sweetness will intensify as the rice cools, glance through our article Top Picks for Precision Cooking.

Topping with Platanos Maduros

Platanos Maduros, or ripe plantains, provide a delicious and sweet topping for Arroz con Leche. To get the best results, cut the plantains into 1/4 inch slices and fry them until they are golden brown on both sides. Drain them on paper towels before placing them on top of the Arroz con Leche.

Presentation

The presentation is key when serving Arroz con Leche topped with Platanos Maduros. Transfer the rice pudding to individual serving dishes before topping it with the plantains. Sprinkle cinnamon on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra special touch.

Classic Arroz con Leche Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of arroz
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can of evaporated milk
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 3 ripe platanos maduros
  • 1/4 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of butter

Instructions

  1. Rinse rice and combine it with cinnamon sticks, water, and a pinch of salt in a medium-sized pot.
  2. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add both milks and vanilla extract to the pot and continue to cook on low heat (uncovered) until the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is creamy and tender.
  4. Once the mixture is done, remove from heat, cover the pot and set aside.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  6. Cut platanos maduros into slices and lay them out in a baking dish, buttered and sprinkled with brown sugar.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until platanos are tender and caramelized.
  8. To serve, scoop the rice pudding in bowls and top it with the caramelized platanos maduros.
  9. Enjoy your delicious and creamy Arroz con Leche topped with Platanos Maduros!

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 50 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 355
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 24mg
  • Sodium: 138mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 67g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 41g
  • Protein: 7g

Variations for Arroz con Leche

Macadamia Rice Pudding

This version is made creamy with coconut milk, infused with vanilla, and topped with crunchy macadamia nuts for an indulgent twist on classic rice pudding.

Macadamia Rice Pudding

Almond Rice Pudding

This version is made rich and nutty with almond milk, sweetened with honey, and garnished with toasted almonds for added texture.

Lemon and Almond Rice Pudding

Brown Rice Pudding With Coconut

This version is made hearty with brown rice, simmered in creamy coconut milk, and enhanced with a hint of vanilla and shredded coconut.

Brown Rice Pudding With Coconut, Ginger and Warm Spices

Indian Rice Pudding

This version is made aromatic with basmati rice, infused with coconut milk, cardamom, and topped with pistachios for a delightful finish.

Indian Rice Pudding

Cardamom Rice Pudding

This version is made with creamy rice simmered in milk, delicately flavored with cardamom, and adorned with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Foxnut (Makhane) & Cardamom Rice Pudding

Rice Pudding with Toasted Hazelnuts

This version is made with rich, creamy rice pudding topped with crunchy toasted hazelnuts, adding a delightful nutty flavor and texture.

Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding with Toasted Hazelnuts

Berry Rice Pudding

This version is made with creamy rice pudding mixed with a medley of fresh berries, creating a vibrant, fruity dessert experience.

Summer Berry Rice Pudding Crumble

Tropical Rice Pudding

This version is made with a creamy rice pudding infused with the sweetness of pineapple, mango, and coconut, a tropical getaway in every spoonful.

Tropical Rice Pudding

Arroz con leche Recipe Review

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