Rizogalo is a traditional Greek rice pudding that is easy to make and so delicious, blending the flavours of orange and vanilla and the fragrance of with cinnamon. It will take a little of your time stirring but will reward your effort with a delicious desert that can be served hot or cold. You can also add some sultanas, though that is optional. It also makes a lovely breakfast dish.

Rizogalo or Greek Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of medium grain rice
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• zest of 1 orange, grated finely
• *Sultanas, optional, 1 Tblsp per serve

Method:

1. Wash rice in cold water
2. In a heavy based pot, place cold water and rice
3. Bring to the boil and stir to keep the rice from sticking
4. Then lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring the mixture to keep it from catching
5. Meanwhile, using another heavy based pot, add the milk, orange zest sugar and vanilla (add sultanas here if you choose to include them)and bring to the boil stirring till the sugar is dissolved, then set aside
6. After the rice has cooked for 10 minutes, drain it and add to the warm milk
7. Bring to the boil stirring constantly and then lower to a simmer
8. Continue cooking for 15 minutes, stirring constantly till the rice is creamy and the milk is absorbed
9. Adjust according to your personal preference adding a little extra warm milk to the finished rice to bring the rizogalo to your desired consistency.
10. Spoon into small bowls and sprinkle cinnamon over the rizogalo before serving
11. Rizogalo is delicious served hot or cold