Arroz Doce – Portuguese rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest

Introduction

Arroz Doce, or Portuguese rice pudding, is a beloved dessert that captures the heart of Portuguese culture with its creamy texture and fragrant spices. Commonly found in traditional Portuguese restaurants and family gatherings, this dessert is often enjoyed on festive occasions and can be found for a price range of €3 to €5 ($3 to $6) in charming eateries across Portugal, such as Cantinho do Avillez in Lisbon and Restaurante O Pitéu in Porto. However, as the demand for healthier alternatives rises, many are now looking for keto adaptations. Enter the Keto Arroz Doce, a sugar-conscious twist that swaps traditional ingredients for lower-carb substitutes while maintaining the warm flavors of cinnamon and lemon zest. Whether you’re indulging in the traditional or seeking out the keto version, Arroz Doce is a comforting treat that has won the affection of many.

Origin and Inspiration

Hailing from the sun-kissed landscapes of Portugal, Arroz Doce is steeped in history and tradition, often made to celebrate life’s milestones. This creamy rice pudding combines starchy rice with a rich blend of milk, sugar, and eggs, highlighted by the aromatic dance of cinnamon and the zing of lemon zest. Similar desserts can be found worldwide, from Spain’s Arroz con Leche to Italy’s Riso Dolce, yet Arroz Doce stands out with its velvety creaminess and unique seasoning.

The keto adaptation offers a modern take on this cherished classic by incorporating alternative sweeteners such as erythritol and opting for almond flour as a thickening agent. Imagine savoring a bowl of luscious rice pudding, where each spoonful delivers the familiar warmth of cinnamon and the refreshing twist of lemon, now with a fraction of the carbs—making it a guilt-free delight for those watching their intake.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Traditional Version

Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 75mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g

Keto Version

Calories: 200 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 75mg | Potassium: 150mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g

Ingredients (2 Servings)

Shared Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or cauliflower rice for keto)
• 2 cups milk (or unsweetened almond milk for keto)
• 1/2 cup erythritol (or sugar for traditional version)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 egg
• Pinch of salt

Traditional Version:

• 1 cup white short-grain rice
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Keto Version:

• 1 cup cauliflower rice
• 2 tbsp almond flour

Instructions

Prepare the Base

1. Cooking the Rice:

   • Traditional Version: In a saucepan, add the white rice along with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
   • Keto Version: Steam or sauté the cauliflower rice in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing it to become tender but not mushy.

2. Creating the Creamy Mixture:
   In the same saucepan (or skillet for keto), combine the cooked rice (or cauliflower rice), milk (or almond milk), erythritol, cinnamon stick, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.

Cooking Method

1. Simmering the Mixture:
   Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and reaches a creamy consistency—approximately 15-20 minutes. For the keto version, add almond flour towards the end to enhance creaminess.

Final Assembly

1. Adding the Egg:
   In a bowl, whisk the egg. Temper the egg by adding a tablespoon of the hot pudding mixture to it and mixing. Then gently stir this back into the pot. This adds richness to the pudding.

2. Serving:
   Remove the cinnamon stick, pour the Arroz Doce into serving dishes, and let it cool slightly. You can sprinkle with additional cinnamon or garnish with lemon zest for an added touch.

What Does It Pair Well With?

• Traditional Pairings: Enjoy your Arroz Doce alongside a robust Portuguese coffee, such as Bica, or pair it with a crisp, buttery pastry to complement its creamy texture.

• Keto-Friendly Pairings: Serve with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a side of low-carb berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, to add a refreshing contrast.

What is the Shelf Life?

Arroz Doce stays fresh for about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If needed, it can be frozen for up to one month. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For reheating, feel free to use the microwave for a quick warm-up or a saucepan over low heat to maintain its creamy texture.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Instant Pot: Combine all ingredients (excluding the egg) in your Instant Pot, set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes, and allow for natural release. Finish with the egg once it’s cooked.

• Stovetop: Cooking the pudding gently over low heat can allow the flavors to meld beautifully, although it may take a bit longer.

Conclusion: Arroz Doce is Truly Versatile

Both the traditional and keto versions of Arroz Doce present a delightful fusion of flavors that warm the soul. The traditional pudding captivates with its creamy decadence, while the keto version offers a satisfying and indulgent yet health-conscious alternative. Each bowl reflects a piece of Portuguese heritage—evoking memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Whether you indulge in one or both, this comforting dessert is perfect for enriching your palate and satisfying your sweet cravings in a balanced way. Enjoy the flavors, and let the sweet nostalgia embrace you in every bite!