Cardamom Cinnamon Rice Pudding
Creamy, slow-cooked arborio rice infused with green cardamom, warm cinnamon, and a hint of rosewater.
Comfort food at its finest. This classic, rich rice pudding is gently spiced with cardamom pods and cinnamon, giving it an exotic, warming depth. Excellent served warm or chilled.
Key Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Large Non-Stick Skillet
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Mise en Place: Measure and prep all ingredients before you turn on the stove. This recipe moves quickly, and having everything ready prevents burning.
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, whole garlic cloves, and fresh herbs instead of dried/jarred versions. The flavor difference is huge!
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Leave room between ingredients. If the pan is overloaded, the moisture will steam the food instead of browning it.
Ingredients
4
servings
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½ cup arborio rice, uncooked
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3 cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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⅓ cup sugar
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6 whole green cardamom pods, crushed
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1 whole cinnamon stick
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1 tsp rosewater
Step-by-Step Instructions
Simmer Rice and Spices
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the arborio rice, whole milk, heavy cream, crushed cardamom pods, and the cinnamon stick. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Slow Cook to Creamy
Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 30-35 minutes. Stir every few minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan, until the rice is tender and the liquid is creamy and thick.
Sweeten and Finish
Stir in the sugar and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, discard the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods, and stir in the rosewater. Garnish with pistachios and ground cinnamon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allow the food to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
We do not recommend freezing this dish, as dairy-based sauces and creamy textures tend to separate and curdle when thawed.
Use our interactive servings adjuster at the top of the ingredients list! Simply click the '+' or '-' buttons to automatically scale all ingredient quantities up or down to match your guest count.
Absolutely! For gluten-free modifications, swap standard grains or soy sauces with tamari or certified gluten-free options. For plant-based alternatives, choose coconut milk or vegetable broth in place of dairy and chicken products.