Rizogalo Greek Rice Pudding

The festive holiday season is the perfect time to gather in the cozy warmth of your kitchen, filling your home with the enticing aromas of traditional Greek Christmas baking. One classic treat that embodies the spirit of the season is the delicious Rizogalo, a creamy and comforting Greek rice pudding that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. This dessert is a delightful combination of tender rice grains simmered in sweetened milk, perfumed with fragrant hints of vanilla and cinnamon. It’s a dish that brings together both the simplicity and sophistication of Greek culinary traditions, offering a taste of Greek hospitality and warmth to your holiday table.

Rizogalo Greek Rice Pudding

Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups whole milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling

Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the milk and cinnamon stick over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

2. Add the Arborio rice to the simmering milk, stirring well to prevent clumping. Allow the rice to cook in the milk, stirring occasionally, until it begins to absorb the liquid and soften, approximately 20-25 minutes.

3. Stir in the sugar and continue to cook the mixture over low heat, allowing the rice to absorb the sweetened milk. Stirring occasionally, let the pudding simmer until it reaches a creamy consistency, for about 15-20 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the pudding should be thick and creamy.

4. Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the pudding with its sweet and aromatic flavor.

5. Carefully ladle the warm Rizogalo into individual serving bowls or a large communal dish. Sprinkle a dusting of ground cinnamon over the top of each portion for a decorative and flavorful touch.

6. Serve the Rizogalo warm, allowing the comforting aroma of vanilla and cinnamon to fill the room as you enjoy this delightful Greek rice pudding with family and friends. It can be served immediately, or chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours for a refreshing dessert option.

Rizogalo is a classic dessert that captures the essence of Greek hospitality and culinary tradition. It is a dish that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making it an ideal addition to your holiday menu. Whether you serve it as a comforting end to a festive meal or as a cozy treat to enjoy by the fire, Rizogalo is sure to become a family favorite for your Christmas celebrations. Enjoy the simple pleasure of this creamy and delicious Greek rice pudding, and savor the magic of the holiday season with each spoonful.