Costa Rican
⭐ Highly Rated
35 minmedium
Costa RicanSnack
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsArroz con Leche Dulce is a beloved Costa Rican comfort food that transforms simple rice into a luxurious sweet treat. This traditional recipe combines tender rice grains with rich milk, sweetened with sugar and flavored with aromatic cinnamon sticks and vanilla extract. The slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb the milk fully, creating a thick, creamy consistency that is both satisfying and indulgent. Often enjoyed warm or chilled, this sweet rice pudding represents the heart of Costa Rican home cooking, where simple ingredients are elevated through careful preparation and traditional techniques. The dish is frequently served as an afternoon snack or dessert, bringing families together around the table. Its versatility makes it suitable for everyday enjoyment or special gatherings, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Costa Rican culture.
Instructions
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Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain thoroughly.
In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
Add the milk, cinnamon sticks, and a pinch of salt to the cooked rice, stirring well to combine.
Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Continue cooking for 25-30 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Remove the cinnamon sticks and discard.
Let the pudding cool slightly before serving, or refrigerate for a chilled version.
Sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving if desired.
Arroz con Leche Dulce
4.6 (59)
Traditional Costa Rican sweet rice pudding infused with cinnamon and vanilla, creating a creamy, comforting snack perfect for any time of day.
easy
55 min
6 servings
Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
- 1 cups rice-white, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups milk, whole milk preferred
Sweeteners
- 3/4 cups sugar
Spices
- 2 pieces cinnamon, whole sticks
Flavorings
- 2 teaspoons vanilla-extract
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoons salt
Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground for garnish (optional)
Chef Tips
expert advice•For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with evaporated milk or coconut milk.
•The pudding will thicken as it cools, so if you prefer a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk when reheating.
•Some Costa Rican families add a touch of lemon zest for a citrus note.
•You can also stir in raisins during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added texture and sweetness.
•For individual servings, pour the warm pudding into ramekins and chill before serving.
•The dish can be garnished with fresh fruit like mango or pineapple slices for a tropical twist.
