Rice Pudding

Given that rice is one of the most widely consumed foods in the world (and that everyone loves dessert), it’s not surprising that rice pudding is enjoyed just about everywhere! Rice pudding comes together pretty easily, but when using such vibrant flavors as vanilla cardamom, and cinnamon, the dish is far from bland. As with any meal this popular around the globe, there are plenty of variations — including a Ramadan-favorite saffron and rose water spin. Simple and delicious, it’s hard to go wrong with rice pudding!

Ingredients

• ¼ cup white rice (any rice besides glutinous rice, aka sweet rice, will work)

• ¼ cup white or brown sugar

• 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)

• 1 cup water

• Optional flavoring ingredients: 0.5 teaspoons rosewater, 0.5 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 pinch cardamom, 1 pinch cinnamon

• Optional toppings: shaved chocolate, pistachios, almonds, raisins, any dried fruit

Directions

1. Mix the rice and water in a medium pot.

2. Turn the stove to high until the water is boiling, then reduce the heat to medium.

3. Cook for 12 minutes after the water has boiled.

4. Carefully drain the rice in a colander, then return it to the pot.

5. Add the milk and sugar and turn the stove to high heat until the milk boils.

6. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until creamy and the rice is soft.

7. Add any flavoring ingredients that you’re using and stir to combine.

8. Add any toppings you’d like.

9. Enjoy!

Fun Q&A

Q: What is a lunar calendar?

A: A lunar calendar is based on the monthly cycles of the moon’s phases (a month being the time from new moon to new moon).

Q: What is Ramadan?

A: Ramadan is the name for the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which is a lunar calendar. Ramadan starts on the first sighting of the crescent moon. This month is very important for Muslims, since they believe the Qur’an, Islam’s holy book, was revealed during this time. During this month, people fast from sunrise to sundown. During the daylight hours, they cannot eat or drink. Since Ramadan is based on a lunar calendar, sometimes it occurs in the summer and other times in the winter. During the summer, people have to fast for 12+ hours. The fast is broken in the evening, and usually people break the fast by eating dates. The last day of Ramadan is Eid al-Fitr, and its name means “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” During Eid, people typically visit other people’s houses and share food.