Brazilian Coconut Rice Pudding
This Brazilian Coconut Rice Pudding features creamy coconut and tender rice, creating a delightful dessert that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
30 minutes
Level
Medium
Serves
6
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
Rinse the Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too gummy.
- 2
In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and whole milk. Stir in the sugar and salt, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- 3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom, cooking until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened (about 20-25 minutes).
- 4
Stir in the vanilla extract and the shredded coconut, mixing thoroughly until everything is well combined.
- 5
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pudding cool for a few minutes before serving. It will thicken further as it cools.
- 6
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips
For extra flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet before adding it to the pudding.
Adjust sugar according to your sweetness preference.
If you prefer a thicker pudding, cook it a few extra minutes.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.
Substitutions
- You can substitute Arborio rice with any short-grain rice.
- Use almond milk as a dairy-free option, but adjust sweetness accordingly.
What to Serve With
- Enjoy it on its own for dessert or snack.
- Pair with fresh fruit for added flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Not rinsing the rice, which can result in a gummy texture.
- Cooking at too high a heat, which can cause the pudding to stick and scorch.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use unsweetened coconut milk?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut milk, but you may want to adjust the sugar for sweetness.
Is Arborio rice necessary for this recipe?
Yes, Arborio rice is preferred because of its high starch content, which gives the pudding a creamy texture.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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