Milk rice

Milk Rice

Alternative names	Rice pudding, Kheer
Course	Dessert
Place of origin	Various
Region or state	Worldwide
Serving temperature	Hot or cold
Main ingredients	Rice, milk, sugar
Variations	Numerous
Cookbook: Milk Rice   Media: Milk Rice

Milk rice, also known as rice pudding or kheer in some regions, is a traditional dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar. It is a popular dish in many cultures around the world and has various regional variations.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients in milk rice are:

• Rice - Usually a short to medium grain rice is used, which is more starchy and helps in creating a creamy texture.
• Milk - Whole milk is typically used for its richness, but variations may include cream, condensed milk, or non-dairy alternatives.
• Sugar - To sweeten the dish. Some recipes may use alternative sweeteners like honey or jaggery.

Preparation

Milk rice is prepared by slowly cooking the rice in milk until the mixture thickens. The rice can be pre-cooked or cooked directly in the milk. Sweeteners and flavorings such as vanilla, cinnamon, or cardamom are added. The dish can be garnished with nuts, raisins, or spices to enhance flavor and texture.

Regional Variations

• In India, it is known as kheer and often includes cardamom, saffron, and nuts.
• In Europe, particularly in countries like Germany and England, it is typically flavored with vanilla or cinnamon and served with a dollop of jam or fruit compote.
• In the Nordic countries, rice pudding is a common Christmas dish, sometimes served with a cherry sauce.

Cultural Significance

Milk rice holds cultural significance in various regions. For example, in Sri Lanka, a special type of milk rice called "Kiribath" is made with coconut milk and is an essential part of celebrations and ceremonies.

Nutritional Information

Milk rice is high in carbohydrates due to its rice content, and its milk base contributes protein and fat. It can be calorie-dense, especially with added sugars and fats.

See Also

• Dessert
• Cuisine of India
• European cuisine