Sütlaç is a beloved Turkish dessert, a creamy rice pudding infused with flavors of vanilla and cinnamon. Originating from Ottoman cuisine, it has deep roots in Turkish culinary heritage, evolving over centuries. This comforting dessert has endured through generations, cherished for its rich taste and cultural significance, often served as a sweet finale to meals or during festive occasions.

Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup short-grain rice

- 1 cup water

- 4 cups milk

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker consistency)

- Ground cinnamon for garnish

Method:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Add milk to the cooked rice in the saucepan. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

4. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 20-25 minutes.

5. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry, then add it to the pudding to thicken further. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pudding cool slightly.

7. Transfer the pudding into individual serving bowls or a large serving dish.

8. Refrigerate the pudding until chilled.

9. Before serving, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for garnish.

10. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!

Nutrition Value:

1. Short-grain Rice (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 100 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 22g

  - Protein: Approximately 2g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates. Contains small amounts of protein and dietary fiber.

2. Water (1 cup):

  - No caloric value

  - No carbohydrates, protein, or fat

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Essential for hydration and various bodily functions.

3. Milk (4 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 600 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 48g

  - Protein: Approximately 32g

  - Fat: Approximately 32g

  - Sodium: Approximately 400mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 100mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of calcium, protein, and vitamins D and B12. Provides energy from fats and lactose (a type of sugar in milk).

4. Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 100g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. High consumption may lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes.

5. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon):

  - Negligible caloric value

  - Negligible carbohydrates, protein, and fat

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: Negligible

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor without significant nutritional value.

6. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 7g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Used as a thickening agent, adding texture to the pudding without significant nutritional value.

7. Ground Cinnamon for Garnish:

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal (per teaspoon)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Adds flavor without significant caloric contribution.