
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsArroz con Leche Peruano is a traditional Peruvian rice pudding that showcases the countrys love for sweet, comforting desserts. This velvety dessert combines tender rice slowly simmered in whole milk and sweetened condensed milk, creating an irresistibly creamy texture. Fragrant cinnamon sticks and whole cloves infuse the pudding with warm spices while it cooks, filling your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma. Unlike other rice puddings, the Peruvian version achieves its distinctive richness from the combination of both regular and condensed milk, along with evaporated milk for extra body. The result is a luscious, spoonable dessert that can be enjoyed warm for ultimate comfort or chilled for a refreshing treat. Traditionally served at family gatherings and festive occasions, this dessert represents the fusion of Spanish colonial influences with Peruvian culinary traditions, making it a beloved staple in homes across Peru.
Instructions
step by stepRinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the rinsed rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until rice is tender and most water is absorbed. Add the whole milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to the pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Continue simmering for 30-35 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. The rice should be very soft and the liquid reduced by about half. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. Taste and add sugar if additional sweetness is desired. Pour the arroz con leche into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish. Allow to cool for 10 minutes at room temperature. Sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the top of each serving. Serve warm or refrigerate for at least 2 hours to serve chilled.
Arroz con Leche Peruano
Creamy Peruvian rice pudding infused with cinnamon, cloves, and condensed milk, creating a rich and aromatic dessert that is beloved throughout Peru and served warm or chilled with a dusting of cinnamon.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cups rice-white, rinsed
- 4 cups milk, whole milk
- 1 cups heavy-cream, evaporated milk
Sweeteners
- 3/4 cups honey, sweetened condensed milk
Spices
- 2 pieces cinnamon, whole cinnamon sticks
- 4 pieces nutmeg, whole cloves
Flavorings
- 2 teaspoons vanilla-extract, pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted butter
Garnish
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground for topping
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoons salt, pinch (optional)