Courtesy of the Spice Hunter
Rice pudding provides the ideal blank canvas for flavor. At Balkan Treat Box in Webster Groves, chef-owner Loryn Nalic serves rice pudding, or sutlija, as it’s known in Turkey and the Balkans, with pistachios and dried rose petals. She also enjoys a more classic preparation made with fresh, high-quality The Spice Hunter® ground cinnamon. The earthy, aromatic spice adds warm flavor to the dish, which can be enjoyed as a dessert or for breakfast. To complete the recipe, seek out The Spice Hunter® ground cinnamon in the spice aisle at your local Schnucks or Dierbergs store. (Chef Tip: Choosing quality spices can make a huge difference in the outcome of your dish.)
Cinnamon Rice Pudding
Recipe by Balkan Treat Box chef-owner Loryn Nalic
Serves 4
- 1 quart whole milk
- ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ tsp. kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1½ tsp. The Spice Hunter® ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
- ½ cup short-grain rice
- 1 egg
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients except the egg in a large saucepan over medium to medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until mixture is soft and thick.
- Beat egg in a small bowl. Add a little of the hot mixture to the beaten egg to temper it. Pour the egg and mixture back into the pot and cook, stirring constantly, until the rice pudding coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve warm or chilled in cups or bowls. Sprinkle cinnamon over top before serving.
