Arroz con leche made easy (and fast!)

From its origin, rice versatility has made it possible to use it in various ways, not only in savory meals but in sugary dishes too. One example of rice used as a dessert is the famous Rice Pudding.

Rice is the most consumed grain worldwide; it is not a surprise to find that almost every country in the world has its version of Rice pudding. Arroz con Leche is one of the names given to this famous and delicious rice dessert. It is also called Kheer in India, Budino di riso in Italy, Rice porridge in Sweden, Ba bao fan in China, and so on.

All these versions have peculiar flavors, but they are delicious in their way. Some variations include eggs, different types of milk, spices, fruits, nuts, and various sweeteners. However, the base of all of them remains the same: rice, milk, sugar, and flavorings.

Rice pudding is one of the few meals that have not changed its essence since its origins. The first evidence of this dish dates back to the 15th century, according to a rice pudding recipe found. It described how to prepare a pudding sweetened with sugar or honey.

Besides this evidence, its origins are still uncertain. It is said that it had its origins in China or India where the first rice crops were located. Wherever the birth of this delightful dessert may have taken place, there is no doubt that it is the most popular rice dessert in the world. 

Different cooking methods 

Additionally to its delightful taste, preparing Arroz con Leche is very easy, and by using modern appliances, it is even quicker to cook than other desserts.

More traditional cooking methods include boiling and baking, although these techniques usually require babysitting the rice to prevent it from sticking.

Nowadays, useful cooking gadgets allow you to put all the ingredients in a pot, press a couple of buttons and just wait for it.

Rice cookers, instant pots, crockpots are just some of the electric devices you can use to start cooking rice pudding. You only need to find a good recipe, add all the ingredients, and enjoy the final result. You can cook delicious Arroz con Leche instant pot in a few steps and in a short time.

Easy and fast Arroz con Leche recipes

There are no two places in the world where rice puddings taste the same. Most people have family rice pudding recipes used over time, but that has passed from some changes and adaptations.

Differences are often based on personal taste and the additions of new flavors like toppings and flavorings.

If you do not have a family Arroz con Leche recipe, or want to create your own version, you may try these quick and easy recipes.

Instant pot Arroz con Leche

Servings: 6 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of whole milk.
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk.
• 1 cup of long-grain white rice.
• 1 1/4 cups of water.
• 1/8 teaspoon of salt.
• 1 teaspoon of Vanilla extract.
• Ground cinnamon for garnish.

Preparation:

1. First, rinse rice until water runs clear.
2. In the Instant Pot, pour water, whole milk, rinsed rice, and salt. Stir carefully until all ingredients are perfectly blended.
3. Place the lid and secure it.
4. In the PORRIDGE option, set 20 minutes cooking time.
5. Once time is over, release pressure and wait 10 minutes.
6. Open the lid, and add the vanilla extract and the sweetened condensed milk. Mix very well.
7. Serve with ground cinnamon on the top.

Instant pot Mexican Arroz con Leche

Servings: 4 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1-1/4 cups of water.
• 1/3 cup of granulated sugar.
• 2 cups of whole milk.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
• 1 cup of rinsed long-grain white rice.
• 1 cinnamon stick.
• 1 of strip orange or lemon zest.
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
• 1/4 cup of chopped pecans.
• 1/4 cup of raisins.

Preparation:

1. In the Instant pot, add whole milk, water, sugar, salt, rice, cinnamon stick, vanilla extract, and orange/lemon zest. Combine with a wooden spatula.
2. Place the lid and close it carefully.
3. Press Porridge function, and select 20 minutes to start cooking.
4. Once completed, let the Instant Pot release the pressure.
5. Open the lid, and take out the cinnamon stick and orange/lemon zest. 
6. Let it stand for a few minutes.
7. Serve with ground cinnamon, pecans, and raisins to taste.