Palestinian Rice Pudding Recipe (Roz Bel Laban)

Palestinian rice pudding

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup short-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 cup water
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish
  • Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the Rice:
    • Rinse the short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
  2. Cook the Rice:
    • In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed. This may take about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Rice Pudding Base:
    • Add the whole milk to the cooked rice, stirring to combine.
    • Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Sweeten the Pudding:
    • Add sugar to the milk and rice mixture.
    • Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  5. Add Aromatic Waters (Optional):
    • If using, stir in the rose water and orange blossom water for a fragrant touch.
  6. Thicken the Pudding:
    • In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water to create a smooth slurry.
    • Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the rice and milk mixture, stirring constantly.
    • Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the pudding thickens to your desired consistency.
  7. Cool the Pudding:
    • Once the pudding reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
  8. Serve:
    • Spoon the rice pudding into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish.
    • Allow it to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
  9. Garnish and Enjoy:
    • Before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top.
    • Optionally, garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds for added texture and flavor.

This Palestinian Rice Pudding, or Roz Bel Laban, is a deliciously creamy and comforting dessert. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

5/5 - (8 votes)

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