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Riz Bi Haleeb, or Lebanese Rice Pudding, is a comforting and beloved dessert that has warmed the hearts of generations. This traditional dish is cherished for its simplicity, creamy texture, and delicate flavours, making it a staple in Lebanese households.
Often served as a dessert or a sweet treat, Riz Bi Haleeb captures the essence of Lebanese cuisine, where humble ingredients are transformed into something truly special.
What Is Riz Bi Haleeb?
Riz Bi Haleeb is a smooth and creamy rice pudding, made by simmering rice in milk until it reaches a thick, custard-like consistency. The name itself is straightforward, with “Riz” meaning rice and “Haleeb” meaning milk in Arabic.
This dish is typically flavoured with a touch of sugar and a hint of rose or orange blossom water, which gives it a distinctive and aromatic taste. It’s often enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing treat in the warm Mediterranean climate.
Ingredients and Taste
The basic ingredients for Riz Bi Haleeb are simple yet harmonious: rice, milk, sugar, and a floral essence, usually rose water or orange blossom water. The rice is cooked slowly in milk, allowing it to absorb the liquid and swell, creating a creamy texture.
Sugar is added for sweetness, balanced by the subtle fragrance of the rose or orange blossom water, which elevates the dish with a floral note that’s both delicate and distinctive.
The result is a rich and smooth pudding that is sweet but not overwhelmingly so, with the floral undertones providing a refreshing contrast to the creaminess. Some variations may include a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavour.
The taste of Riz Bi Haleeb is often described as soothing and comforting, making it a favourite for both children and adults alike.
A Taste of History
Riz Bi Haleeb has a long standing presence in Lebanese culinary tradition, where it is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions. The origins of rice pudding can be traced back to ancient times, with variations of the dish found in many cultures across the Middle East, South Asia, and Europe.
In Lebanon, Riz Bi Haleeb has become a quintessential dessert, deeply rooted in the country’s culinary heritage. The dish likely evolved from the broader tradition of sweet milk-based desserts, which have been popular in the region for centuries.
Over time, Riz Bi Haleeb has been passed down through generations, with each family adding its own touch, whether it be the type of floral water used or the method of serving.
Traditional Lebanese Riz Bi Haleeb Recipe
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup short-grain rice (such as Arborio)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp orange blossom water (or rose water)
- 1/4 tsp ground mastic (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Ground cinnamon and crushed pistachios for garnish
Directions
In a medium saucepan, rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, which ensures a creamy, not overly sticky, pudding texture.
Add the rinsed rice and 1 cup of water to the saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the rice to cook for 10-15 minutes or until the water is almost fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Reduce the heat to low and add the whole milk to the rice. Stir well to combine. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, for about 20 minutes until the rice has fully absorbed the milk and becomes creamy.
Once the rice is tender and the mixture thickens, add the sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly to dissolve the sugar, ensuring the sweetness is evenly distributed.
Add the ground mastic (if using) by crushing it with a pinch of sugar, then stirring it into the pudding. Mastic imparts a unique aromatic flavour, but it is optional. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange blossom water or rose water. This final touch adds a fragrant aroma that is quintessential to Lebanese desserts.
Pour the rice pudding into individual serving bowls or ramekins while still warm. Allow it to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to set properly.
Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a handful of crushed pistachios. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert, or at room temperature, based on your preference.
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