Bosnian Sutlijaš is a traditional rice pudding dessert from Bosnia and Herzegovina, made with milk, sugar, and rice. This sweet and creamy dish is beloved for its simple ingredients and rich flavor, often enhanced with cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for special occasions, it can be served warm or chilled and garnished with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Bosnian Sutlijaš, a classic dessert from Bosnia and Herzegovina, features a smooth, silky texture achieved by slowly simmering rice in milk until it thickens into a pudding. The addition of sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes vanilla extract gives it a warm, comforting aroma and flavor. Some variations include chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture and sweetness.

This dessert is a staple at family gatherings and special occasions throughout the Balkans. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it a favorite among many. Bosnian Sutlijaš can be enjoyed warm or chilled, often garnished with chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make Bosnian Sutlijaš:

Ingredients:

1- 1 cup of rice

2- 8 cups of milk

3- 1 cup of sugar

4- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

5- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

6- A pinch of salt

7- Chopped walnuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- Rinse the rice thoroughly in a strainer under running water until the water runs clear.

2- In a large pot, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.

3- Add the rinsed rice to the boiling milk and stir to combine.

4- Reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the mixture has thickened.

5- Add the sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the pot and stir until the sugar has dissolved.

6- Let the mixture simmer for another 10-15 minutes until it has thickened to your desired consistency.

7- Remove the pot from the heat and let the Sutlijaš cool for a few minutes.

8- Serve the Sutlijaš warm or chilled, garnished with chopped walnuts if desired.

Note:

It is important to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.

Nutrition Facts:

1 cup of rice:

  - Calories: 205 kcal

  - Protein: 4.3g

  - Carbohydrates: 44.5g

  - Fat: 0.4g

  - Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Energy Source: Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your body throughout the day.
• Gluten-Free: Rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Digestive Health: Brown rice, in particular, is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

8 cups of milk:

  - Calories: 960 kcal

  - Protein: 64g

  - Carbohydrates: 104g

  - Fat: 32g

  - Sodium: 840mg

benefits:

• Calcium: Milk is rich in calcium, essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Protein: It contains high-quality protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Milk is a good source of vitamins A, D, and B12, as well as minerals like potassium and phosphorus.

1 cup of sugar:

  - Calories: 774 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 200g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Quick Energy: Sugar provides a quick source of energy, which can be beneficial during periods of physical activity or when energy levels are low.
• Flavor Enhancement: It enhances the sweetness of dishes, making them more palatable.
• Texture: Sugar helps create a soft and moist texture in baked goods and desserts.

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract:

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Flavor Enhancer: Vanilla extract adds a rich and aromatic flavor to dishes, enhancing their taste.
• Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Aromatherapy: The aroma of vanilla has been shown to have calming effects and may help reduce stress and anxiety.

1 teaspoon of cinnamon:

  - Calories: 6 kcal

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 2.1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Antioxidants: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress in the body.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: It may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

A pinch of salt:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: Varies based on the amount used (generally less than 1mg)

benefits:

• Electrolyte Balance: Salt helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body, which is essential for proper nerve and muscle function.
• Flavor Enhancement: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of dishes, balancing sweetness and enhancing other flavors.

Chopped walnuts for garnish (optional):

  - Calories: 185 kcal (per 1/4 cup)

  - Protein: 4.3g (per 1/4 cup)

  - Carbohydrates: 3.8g (per 1/4 cup)

  - Fat: 18.5g (per 1/4 cup)

 - Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Healthy Fats: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Protein: They contain protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
• Texture and Presentation: Chopped walnuts add a crunchy texture and visual appeal to dishes, enhancing their overall presentation.

Bosnian Sutlijaš is a delicious and comforting dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the year. It is a great way to use up leftover rice and is perfect for serving to guests or for a cozy night in.