Indulge in the creamy and tropical flavors of mango rice pudding. This delightful dessert combines the rich texture of rice pudding with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh mango. It’s an easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed warm or chilled, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio or short-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups milk (dairy or coconut milk for a tropical twist)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh mint leaves or extra mango slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
2. Prepare the Pudding Base
Add the milk, sugar, and salt to the cooked rice. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the rice is creamy.
3. Add Flavor
Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cardamom (if using). Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Incorporate Mango
Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the diced mango. Let the pudding sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve
Spoon the mango rice pudding into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra mango slices if desired. Serve warm or refrigerate for a few hours and serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions
This mango rice pudding can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings:
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
- Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with honey or mango puree for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Add a few chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, for a crunchy contrast.
Storage
Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will thicken as it cools, so you may want to stir in a little extra milk before serving to achieve the desired consistency.
Conclusion
Mango rice pudding is a creamy and delicious dessert that brings together the comforting texture of rice pudding with the bright, tropical flavor of mango. Easy to make and versatile, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful treat warm or chilled, garnished with your favorite toppings.
