Portugal is a country that’s known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and, of course, its delectable cuisine. From savory dishes like Bacalhau a Bras and Caldo Verde to sweet treats like Pasteis de Nata, Portuguese cuisine offers a variety of flavors that cater to every palate. Today, we’re going to focus on the sweeter side of things. If you’ve tried our Pasteis de Nata recipe and are looking for another Portuguese dessert to sweeten your week, look no further than Arroz Doce, or Portuguese sweet rice. This creamy, comforting dessert is a staple in Portuguese households and is sure to become a favorite in yours as well.

Ingredients:

1. 300 g of Carolino (Or Carnaroli) rice
2. 350 g of sugar
3. 2 liters of full-fat milk
4. 6 egg yolks
5. 600 ml of water
6. 1 tablespoon of butter
7. 1 lemon peel
8. 1 cinnamon stick
9. A pinch of salt
10. Ground cinnamon for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. To prepare this sweet rice, pour the water into a pot, add the butter, a pinch of salt, the lemon peel, and the cinnamon stick. Bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, add the rice and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until almost all the water has evaporated.
2. In a separate pot, heat the milk. Gradually add the heated milk to the pot with the rice, stirring occasionally. Allow the rice to cook until it becomes soft and creamy.
3. Next, add the sugar, stir, and let it boil for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks, then add a bit of the rice from the pot, stirring until it cools down. Then, add this mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously.
5. Remove the pot from the heat, discard the lemon peel and the cinnamon stick, pour the mixture into a bowl, and let it cool down.
6. When ready to serve, sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

Conclusion:

Arroz Doce is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of Portuguese tradition that’s been passed down through generations. Its creamy texture and sweet, comforting flavors make it the perfect dessert to enjoy after a meal or as a treat on a cozy afternoon. So, the next time you’re craving something sweet, why not give Arroz Doce a try? It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy!