Your Leftover Rice Is Begging To Be Transformed Into Sweet Rice Pudding

Grab a pot to whip up your rice pudding

If you're craving something sweet, all you need to do is grab a pot large enough for the rice pudding you want to prepare. Use an equal amount of leftover rice and your preferred type of milk (the liquid should just cover the rice). Whether it's dairy, oat, almond, coconut, or soy, any milk works well for making rice pudding. The key step is to bring everything to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the temperature before adding any sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, allowing it to simmer until it reaches a pudding-like consistency.

Now for the exciting part: adding extra flavors and ingredients. Rice pudding has been enjoyed worldwide for centuries, from England to India, China to Latin America, making it a dish you can easily customize to suit your taste. For a Southeast Asian twist, consider incorporating spices like ginger, cardamom, or a hint of rose water. Adding shredded coconut and crushed pistachios will give the dish a delightful crunch. Arroz con leche, the Mexican version of rice pudding, uses evaporated and condensed milk for a richer treat; you can even add whole milk for a tres leches-inspired version. Mixing in cinnamon and raisins is another delicious option. Traditional British rice pudding often features butter, lemon zest, nutmeg, and cooked fruits such as pears, rhubarb, or jams. No matter how you decide to enjoy your rice pudding, it's a versatile dish that allows you to make good use of those leftover grains instead of discarding them.