| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 255 | 10g | 6g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 21g | 1g | 6g | 0.2g |
There are few dishes in the world that deliver comfort with such elegance as Spiced Currant Rice Pudding. This delightful blend of jasmine rice, warm spices, and rich milk is more than just a dessert—it’s a culinary hug that speaks to my soul. With the richness of Southern cooking and a subtle nod to West African flavors, this pudding is a beautiful fusion of two culinary traditions that I hold dear.
A Journey of Flavors
Growing up, I always looked forward to the cozy warmth of rice pudding. My mother’s kitchen was filled with the aromatic spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which are heartily embraced in this recipe. The addition of dried currants provides a burst of sweet and tangy flavors, balancing the creaminess of the milk and jasmine rice. These spices not only impart a delightful aroma but are also brimming with health benefits. Cinnamon, for instance, is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels (source).
Perfect Pairings
This Spiced Currant Rice Pudding pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit garnishes like sliced strawberries or mangoes. The fresh fruit adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the pudding. Serve this dish after a hearty meal of grilled chicken or a savory beef stew to soothe the palate and end on a sweet note.
Similar to dishes like arroz con leche or riz au lait, Spiced Currant Rice Pudding stands out with its unique blend of spices and the unexpected burst of currants. It’s a dessert that invites you to slow down, enjoy each bite, and perhaps even share stories of the kitchens you grew up in.
This recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s a celebration of flavors that tells a story of heritage and love. The journey from the pantry to the bowl isn’t just about cooking—it’s about weaving together the threads of history, family, and the joy of sharing good food. Try making Spiced Currant Rice Pudding, and let it bring a touch of warmth and history to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried currants
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Optional: Fresh fruit for garnish (such as sliced strawberries or mangoes)
Method
Step One
In a large saucepan, combine the jasmine rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Two
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step Three
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 30-35 minutes.
Step Four
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and dried currants.
Step Five
Allow the rice pudding to cool for a few minutes, then stir in the heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the texture.
Step Six
Serve the Spiced Currant Rice Pudding warm or chilled. For an added touch, garnish with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or mangoes if desired. Enjoy!
