Ingredients:

  • 1 cup short-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 whole cinnamon stick
  • 1 strip lemon peel
  • ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Combine the short grain white rice, water, and salt in a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium high heat. Note: This creates the starch base.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer.
  3. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is almost entirely absorbed and the rice is tender.
  4. Pour in the whole milk and add the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. Note: This is the infusion phase.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat until you smell a strong cinnamon aroma.
  6. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Note: This adds the final body and sweetness.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently. Cook until the mixture is velvety and clings to the back of a spoon.
  8. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
  9. Garnish with a dusting of ground cinnamon before serving.