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Rice pudding has a rich history that spans across various cultures, making it a beloved dessert worldwide. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where rice was often cooked with milk and sweeteners, creating a dish that was both nourishing and satisfying. Today, rice pudding is celebrated in numerous forms, from the creamy Arroz con Leche in Latin America to the subtly spiced Kheer in India. Each variation reflects the local ingredients and culinary traditions, showcasing the versatility of this dish.

Pear & Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding

Discover the comforting flavors of Pear & Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This creamy dessert features the sweet juiciness of ripe pears and the aromatic richness of vanilla bean, creating a luxurious treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients like Arborio rice, whole milk, and cinnamon, it’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and savor the warmth and nostalgia that this dish brings to your table.

Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice

4 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup granulated sugar

1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)

2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and diced)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large saucepan, combine the Arborio rice with the whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir in the vanilla bean seeds and the scraped vanilla bean pod, and add a pinch of salt.

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency.

      In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the diced pears, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine and allow the pears to soften slightly while infusing their sweetness into the pudding.

        Once the rice pudding is thickened and the pears are tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the vanilla bean pod.

          Let the rice pudding cool for a few minutes before transferring it to individual serving bowls. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

            Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing finish. Enjoy!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4