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Begin your rice pudding journey by gathering your base ingredients, which include Arborio rice, milk (or a plant-based alternative), sugar, and a pinch of salt. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final result, so opt for fresh, high-quality products.

Pear & Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding

Indulge in the creamy richness of Pear & Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding, a delightful twist on a beloved classic. This dessert merges comforting rice pudding with the sweet freshness of ripe pears and the aromatic allure of vanilla bean. Perfect for any occasion, whether warm or chilled, this dish elevates family gatherings and cozy nights alike. Enjoy a recipe that embraces culinary tradition while allowing for personal creativity, making it truly special.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup Arborio rice

4 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup granulated sugar

1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)

2 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and diced)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the Arborio rice, whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Carefully stir in the seeds from the split vanilla bean along with the pod itself, and add a pinch of sea salt for flavor enhancement.

    Gradually bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and allow it to cook uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the rice to achieve a tender texture while the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency.

      In the final 10 minutes of cooking, fold in the diced pears, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest. This will infuse the pudding with the natural sweetness of the pears, giving it a delightful flavor profile. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

        Once the pudding has thickened and the pears are tender, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the used vanilla bean pod to keep the pudding smooth and flavorful.

          Allow the rice pudding to cool for a few minutes in the saucepan before gently spooning it into individual serving bowls. You can serve this dish warm for comfort or chilled for a refreshing dessert, depending on your personal preference.

            Finally, garnish each bowl with a few fresh mint leaves to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. Enjoy this creamy, dreamy dessert!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4