Healthier Rice Pudding Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Dessert
Rice pudding is a classic comfort dessert enjoyed worldwide. While traditional recipes may be indulgent, we have a healthier alternative that will still satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste. In this blog, we present a delightful rice pudding recipe that combines the goodness of nutritious ingredients and a mix of delectable toppings. This healthier version is easy to make and ensures lower fat and sugar content, making it perfect for any occasion. Let's dive into this scrumptious and nutritious treat!
Healthier Rice Pudding
Healthier Rice Pudding Recipe
Our healthier rice pudding recipe is a delicious twist on the traditional dessert, with a focus on balanced nutrition. Unlike Sheer Khurma, this rice pudding is ideal for any time of the week, allowing you to indulge without guilt. The key to its healthiness lies in the choice of ingredients and portion control
Ingredients
100g pudding rice
25g jaggery or light brown sugar
25g golden raisins
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional) or a couple of drops of rosewater
350ml semi-skimmed milk
350ml whole milk
1 cinnamon stick, 3 bashed green cardamom pods, 1 bay leaf, 2 cloves
Nutmeg - ground or freshly grated
Instructions
Put the rice into a heavy-based saucepan with the sugar, raisins, vanilla, and milk. Over a medium heat, slowly bring to a simmer, stirring often.
Add the whole spices and a grating of nutmeg when it comes to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook, stirring often for 25-30 minutes until the rice is soft and has thickened and absorbed the milk. Remove from heat.
Toast the nuts or seeds lightly in a dry frying pan. Prepare the dried and fresh fruit.
Spoon the rice pudding into bowls, top with toasted nuts or seeds, sliced dates (or other fruit), and drizzle over the cream for a treat, if using.
Finish with another grating of nutmeg or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if you like.
Nutritional Benefits
This rice pudding recipe offers various health benefits that make it a great addition to your diet. By using a mix of semi-skimmed and whole milk, we reduce saturated fat content while maintaining the calcium levels essential for bone and teeth health. The natural sweetness from dried and fresh fruits lessens the need for excessive sugar, and the addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds flavour without extra calories. Additionally, the inclusion of unsalted nuts provides a dose of healthy fats, supporting heart health by reducing cholesterol levels. Furthermore, fresh fruits like berries and pomegranate contribute antioxidants to combat cell damage and promote overall well-being.
Mix and Match Toppings
Customise your healthier rice pudding with a variety of delightful toppings. Try toasted pistachios, almonds, or pecans for a crunchy twist. Mixed seeds such as sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame add extra texture and nutritional value. For natural sweetness, opt for Medjool dates or other dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or cranberries. Pomegranate seeds and fresh berries, when in season, contribute essential antioxidants and count toward your daily fruit intake.
Conclusion
Indulging in a dessert doesn't have to mean compromising on health. With our healthier rice pudding recipe, you can enjoy a delicious treat while reaping the benefits of balanced nutrition. By making simple substitutions and practicing portion control, you'll savor a guilt-free dessert that delights your taste buds and promotes overall well-being. So, the next time you crave a delightful dessert, treat yourself to this health-conscious rice pudding—perfect for any occasion, be it a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend. Happy cooking and indulging!
Sangeeta Sengupta
