A DESSERT WORTH CELEBRATING
In Brazil, arroz doce is very well known. It has become one of the traditional dishes of the June festival Festa Junina, which celebrates the Catholic saints John, Peter and Anthony, as well as marking the end of summer and the beginning of the harvest months.
This aromatic and velvety recipe has evolved over the years. Some versions call for cream or condensed milk instead of regular milk, which gives it a different consistency.
Here’s my very own homemade version, passed down to me from my grandmother. Try serving up with chocolate syrup, freshly grated coconut, roasted peanuts, a dash of rum, orange or rose water and guava paste. The possibilities are endless!
HOW TO MAKE ARROZ DOCE
Makes 8 to 10 portions
360g white rice
5 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 lemon or orange
1 litre of milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 large organic egg yolks
150g caster sugar
ground cinnamon
Optional: star anise