Peruvian Rice Pudding Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Peruvian rice pudding, or Arroz Zambito, is a beloved dessert that combines the creamy richness of traditional rice pudding with a unique twist of Peruvian flavors. This comforting treat is infused with cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of citrus zest, creating a harmonious blend that delights the senses.

Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this pudding is perfect for cozy family gatherings or as a sweet finish to a festive dinner. It’s simple to make, requiring just a handful of pantry staples, yet the final result feels luxurious and authentic.

If you’re a fan of desserts that are creamy, aromatic, and just a little bit exotic, this Peruvian rice pudding recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to explore Latin American cuisine and impress your loved ones with something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Peruvian rice pudding recipe stands out because of its unique combination of spices and the use of evaporated milk, which gives it a rich, velvety texture that’s hard to beat. The subtle citrus notes from lime zest brighten the dish, balancing the sweetness beautifully.

It’s an easy dessert to prepare, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking to try something new.

Moreover, this pudding is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. It stores well in the refrigerator, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert.

Whether you serve it for a casual family dessert or a festive celebration, the warm spices and creamy texture will surely bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups whole milk (or substitute with evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lime
• Pinch of salt
• Ground cinnamon for garnish

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or fine grater
• Bowl for serving
• Fine mesh sieve (optional, for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too gummy.
2. Combine milk and spices: In a medium saucepan, pour the whole milk and evaporated milk. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
3. Add rice and sugar: Stir in the rinsed rice and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low to maintain a simmer.
4. Simmer gently: Cook uncovered, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 30-40 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the mixture thickened to a creamy consistency.
5. Remove spices: Once the rice is tender, remove the cinnamon stick and cloves carefully.
6. Add flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and lime zest. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
7. Cool or serve warm: You can serve the pudding warm or transfer it to a bowl and chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. The pudding will thicken as it cools.
8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for an added touch of warmth and aroma.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk and evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

If you prefer a richer pudding, consider adding a splash of sweetened condensed milk towards the end of cooking. For a fruity twist, toss in some chopped dried apricots or raisins during the simmering process.

You can also sprinkle toasted nuts like pecans or almonds on top for added texture and flavor.

Keep stirring frequently while cooking to avoid the rice sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Patience is key to getting the perfect creamy consistency.

If the pudding thickens too much after cooling, simply stir in a little milk to loosen it before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Peruvian rice pudding is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few serving ideas. Serve it topped with fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit compote for a burst of freshness.

Drizzle with a little honey or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

For a festive touch, scatter toasted coconut flakes or chopped pistachios on top. Pair it with a warm cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or a rich coffee to complement the flavors beautifully.

You might also enjoy it alongside other Latin American treats—check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a savory dish to balance your meal.

Conclusion

Peruvian rice pudding is a wonderfully comforting dessert that combines simple ingredients with aromatic spices to create a dish that’s both familiar and exotic. Its creamy texture and delightful blend of cinnamon, cloves, and lime zest make it a standout treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re introducing yourself to Peruvian cuisine or looking for a new twist on classic rice pudding, this recipe is sure to impress.

Easy to prepare and versatile in serving, it’s an excellent dessert for family dinners, celebrations, or even as a sweet snack. Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes like our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals or the refreshing Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a well-rounded culinary adventure.

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