Experience the delightful harmony of creamy sweetness and fragrant cinnamon in our Arroz Doce recipe , and it's also known as a The Rice Chick or Rice Pudding .

Originating from Portugal and beloved across Latin America, this traditional dessert features tender rice simmered in milk, sweetened with sugar, and enriched with cinnamon. Follow our simple recipe to create a homemade delight that promises a journey to culinary satisfaction.

Ingredients:

  - 1 cup of rice (preferably short-grain)

  - 4 cups of whole milk

  - 1 cup of sugar

  - 1 cinnamon stick

  - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

  - Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:

1-Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain excess water.

2-Cook Rice: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rice and milk. Add the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3-Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened, about 20-25 minutes.

4-Sweeten: Once the rice is cooked, add the sugar and vanilla extract. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

5-Finish: Continue to cook the rice pudding for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches your desired consistency.

6-Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and discard. Transfer the Arroz Doce to serving bowls or a large dish. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for garnish.

7-Chill (Optional): You can serve Arroz Doce warm or chilled, depending on your preference. If serving chilled, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Enjoy the creamy goodness of Arroz Doce with its comforting cinnamon flavor!

Nutritional Values :

Rice (1 cup, uncooked):

  - Calories: 206

  - Carbohydrates: 45g

  - Protein: 4g

  - Fat: 0.4g

  - Fiber: 0.6g

benefits:

  - Carbohydrates: Rice provides a significant source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. Carbohydrates help fuel your brain and muscles.

  - Protein: Although rice is not a complete protein source, it still contains some protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Whole Milk (4 cups):

  - Calories: 600

  - Carbohydrates: 48g

  - Protein: 32g

  - Fat: 32g

  - Calcium: 1120mg

benefits:

  - Calcium: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake also supports nerve function and muscle health.

  - Protein: Milk is a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair.

Sugar (1 cup):

  - Calories: 774

  - Carbohydrates: 200g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits:

  - Quick Energy: Sugar provides a quick source of energy, which can be beneficial for immediate energy needs or during physical activity. However, it's essential to consume sugar in moderation to avoid negative health effects.

Cinnamon Stick (1 stick, about 3 inches):

  - Negligible nutritional value (used primarily for flavoring)

benefits:

  - Antioxidants: Cinnamon contains potent antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidants play a crucial role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

  - Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 12

  - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

  - Alcohol: 0.7g

benefits:

  - Antioxidant Properties: Vanilla extract contains antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall health.

  - Mood Enhancement: The aroma and flavor of vanilla have been associated with feelings of relaxation and comfort, potentially promoting a sense of well-being and reducing stress.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand and specific ingredients used.