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If you’re a fan of sweet treats, then you’ve probably heard of arroz con leche, a creamy and delicious rice pudding that’s popular in many Latin American countries. Have you tried the Cubano version of this classic dessert? With its unique blend of spices and a secret ingredient that adds a delightful twist, Cubano arroz con leche is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Rice … yes, please! But, I snuck a secret ingredient that makes this recipe even extra special irresistible.
Arroz con leche, which translates to “rice with milk,” is a dessert that has been enjoyed in Latin America for centuries. The basic ingredients of arroz con leche include rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
Sweetened condensed milk gives this recipe its sweet flavor.
However, the Cubano version of this dessert includes a few additional spices and, of course, the secret ingredient that makes it so irresistible. But what is this secret ingredient that makes it so irresistible? Well, you’ll just have to keep reading to find out. 🙂
You’ll use your slow cooker (and a rice cooker) for this recipe.
Irresistible Cubano Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups milk
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ground cinnamon, to taste
- ground cinnamon, to taste
Instructions
- The first step in making Cubano arroz con leche is to rinse the rice thoroughly. Honestly, Korean mothers rinse rice way too much, to the point that I think they are wasting water. I totally realize that this is a Cuban recipe. But ... rice is rice. I rinse my rice to the point that it doesn't have floaty things in it.
Tbh, just make sure nothing yucky is in the rice. That's the purpose for rinsing it out. Unless you're going to use it as rice toner. - Cook until tender. I usually put it in a rice cooker. I'm a big fan of these Aroma rice cookers.
- Transfer the rice into a slow cooker and turn it up to high. Add milk, sweetened condensed milk, some cinnamon (I like about a teaspoon), and vanilla. Cook on high for about an hour.
- Once it is done, remove from the slow cooker and let it cool a bit before serving ... that is, if it lasts that long.
Drumroll Please … The Secret Ingredient That Makes It Irresistible
So, what is the secret ingredient that makes Cubano arroz con leche so irresistible? The answer is… coconut milk! Yes, that’s right. The addition of coconut milk gives this dessert a unique and delicious flavor that sets it apart from other versions of arroz con leche.
Coconut milk is a common ingredient in many Latin American desserts, especially those from the Caribbean. It adds a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the other spices in the dish. The coconut milk also helps to balance out the sweetness of the condensed milk and sugar, creating a more complex and satisfying dessert.
The use of coconut milk in Cubano arroz con leche is not only delicious but also a nod to the cultural diversity of Cuba. The island nation has a long history of blending different cultures and cuisines, and the use of coconut milk in this dessert is just one example of how they have incorporated different flavors and ingredients into their cuisine.
Variations of Cubano Arroz con Leche
While the traditional version of Cubano arroz con leche is already delicious on its own, there are many variations that you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
Chocolate: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the recipe for a chocolatey twist.
Fruit: Add chopped fruit, such as bananas or strawberries, to the dish before serving.
Almonds: Top the dish with sliced almonds for some added crunch.
Rum: Add a splash of rum to the recipe for a boozy twist.
Walnuts: Chop some of these babies and sprinkle generously.
Serving and Garnishing Suggestions
Cubano arroz con leche is typically served cold and garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. You can also top it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for some added texture and flavor.
If you want to get really fancy, you can serve your Cubano arroz con leche in a glass jar or a mason jar for a rustic, homemade look. You can also add a cinnamon stick or a sprig of mint to the jar for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
The Final
Just look at that creamy delicious goodness. Simple, cheap, and satisfying.
