Ginger & Cinnamon Rice Pudding with Caramelised Apples & Dates

Ingredients

• 200 g Arborio rice (unrinsed)
• 1 L whole milk
• 250 ml cream
• 6 fresh ginger (thin slices)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• salt (pinch)
• 4 egg yolks (organic)
• 3 tbsp honey (plus more to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1.5 tbsp butter
• 4 apples (medium, cored and diced)
• 7 Medjool dates (pitted and chopped)
• 1 tbsp butter (for apples)
• 1 lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
• lemon juice (a squeeze)
• 0.5 tbsp honey (for apples)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the arborio rice, whole milk, cream, ginger slices, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

2. 2

   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency, about 30-40 minutes.

3. 3

   While the rice cooks, prepare the topping. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples and chopped dates.

4. 4

   Sauté the apples and dates until the apples are softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in the lemon zest, a squeeze of lemon juice, and 1/2 tablespoon of honey. Remove from heat and set aside.

5. 5

   Once the rice is cooked, remove the ginger slices from the pot. Stir in the 1.5 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of honey, and vanilla extract (if using).

6. 6

   In a small bowl, lightly whisk the 4 egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly whisking in a small ladle of the hot rice pudding, then stir the yolk mixture back into the main pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on very low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened further (do not let it boil).

7. 7

   Serve the rice pudding warm, topped with the caramelized apples and dates.

Notes

The author notes that ginger supports digestion, dates provide fiber and minerals, and egg yolks provide choline for brain health. The rice is kept unrinsed to ensure the starch helps thicken the pudding.

Nutrition per serving

• postpartum
• comfort food
• rice pudding
• breakfast
• dessert
• vegetarian
• nourishing