Description
A creamy, soothing dairy-free rice pudding made with full-fat coconut milk and bright lime zest. This gentle dessert is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for a calming self-care ritual.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or short-grain rice)
- 2 cans (400ml each) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 limes (zest and juice)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: toasted coconut flakes, extra lime zest, fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Rinse the Arborio rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed rice, full-fat coconut milk, and water. Stir well.
- Place the pot over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent sticking and release starch.
- Check the rice; it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Stir in the maple syrup, lime zest, lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens noticeably.
- Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm topped with toasted coconut flakes and extra lime zest, or refrigerate to serve cold.
Notes
Use full-fat coconut milk from a can, not light milk or carton beverages, for the best texture. Stir regularly to prevent burning and ensure creaminess. Zest limes before juicing. The pudding thickens significantly when chilled; add a splash of coconut milk or water when reheating if it becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, coconut lime rice pudding, self-care, comfort food, easy dessert, healthy dessert