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There’s a certain comfort in the simplicity of a warm bowl of rice pudding that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. I stumbled upon the magic of Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding, or Riz bi Haleeb, on a chilly evening when I was craving something sweet yet satisfying. With its luxuriously creamy texture and unforgettable floral notes of orange blossom or rose water, this delightful dessert doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth; it brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine right into your home.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; with just six simple ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a midday snack, or as a sweet finish to dinner, Riz bi Haleeb is that comforting treat you never knew you needed. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes—which means you can enjoy this delightful dish without the hassle. So, let’s dive into this creamy world and transform a few pantry staples into a sumptuous dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding a Must-Try?

Simplicity reigns with this delightful dessert, requiring just six ingredients to create a creamy masterpiece. Luxurious texture combines the richness of milk and cream with delicate floral notes, elevating your dessert game. Quick prep time of under 30 minutes means you can satisfy your cravings without spending all day in the kitchen. Endless variations allow you to customize flavors with different spices or fruits, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. This crowd-pleaser promises to enchant your family and guests, leaving them coming back for more!

Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding

Short Grain Rice – Provides a creamy structure; medium or short-grain types yield the best results for this stovetop Lebanese rice pudding.
Water – Helps achieve the perfect tenderness in the rice before adding the milk.
Whole Milk – Adds a rich creaminess; opt for whole for a luscious flavor, or use 2% if desired.
Heavy Cream – Increases the dessert’s richness; coconut milk can replace it for a delightful dairy-free alternative.
Cornstarch – Thickens the pudding for a smooth consistency; adjust amount if the pudding turns out too thin.
White Sugar – Sweetens the dish; feel free to substitute with raw cane sugar or rice syrup based on your preference.
Orange Blossom Water or Rose Water – Infuses delightful floral notes into the pudding; adjust to taste for a flavor you love.
Mastic Powder (Optional) – Adds a unique depth of flavor; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Embrace the rich tradition of Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding with these simple ingredients and elevate your dessert experience today!

How to Make Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding

Prepare the Rice: Rinse the short grain rice under cold water until the water runs almost clear. Cook it in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until tender, then drain and set aside.
Make Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a splash of milk. Whisk until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain, for an easy incorporation into the pudding.
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the cooked rice, cornstarch slurry, remaining milk, heavy cream, sugar, and mastic powder. Stir gently and bring to a soft boil over medium heat, continuously mixing until the pudding thickens.
Flavor and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange blossom or rose water. Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving, enhancing the floral flavors.
Serve & Garnish: Spoon the warm pudding into bowls and garnate with crushed pistachios, rose petals, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey. Enjoy!

Optional: Add a sprinkle of ground nuts or dried fruits to elevate the pudding’s texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding

Fridge: Store your leftover stovetop Lebanese rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing, and remember to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pudding on the stovetop with a splash of milk, stirring until smooth and creamy. This helps to restore its luxurious texture.

Serving: If you plan to serve the pudding again, consider adding fresh garnishes like crushed pistachios or a drizzle of honey after reheating to bring back its delightful flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding cups are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pudding up to 24 hours in advance by cooking it according to the instructions, then allowing it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain its deliciously creamy texture, cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk until warmed through, and stir in a little extra orange blossom or rose water to refresh the flavor. Enjoy the satisfying luxury of this dessert with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding?

Indulging in a bowl of creamy rice pudding is like wrapping yourself in a warm, sweet embrace, and you might wonder what dishes could enhance this delightful experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pudding, brightening each bite.
Baklava: The sweet, nutty layers of baklava beautifully complement the creamy texture of rice pudding, creating a heavenly dessert duo.
Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and enhances the floral notes of the pudding, offering a soothing finish.
Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts bring a delightful crunch and a hint of salt that balances the rice pudding’s sweetness. Try mixing various nuts for an exciting flavor profile.
Rose Water Cardamom Cookies: Pairing these cookies with the rice pudding creates a beautiful synergy, enhancing both dessert’s floral notes.
Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor provide a fun twist, delighting the dessert lover in your life.

The choices are endless when it comes to elevating your dessert experience! Each pairing adds a unique layer of flavor, ensuring your Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding is the star of the show.

Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding Variations

Feel free to make this delightful pudding uniquely yours with a few simple tweaks and additions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version.
Flavor Infusions: Experiment with cardamom or cinnamon to create an aromatic warmth that enhances the pudding’s taste.
Fruity Twist: Add dried fruits like raisins or apricots during cooking for a pop of sweetness and chewy texture.
Nutty Crunch: Garnish with toasted almonds or hazelnuts to add a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
Citrus Zing: Stir in a touch of lemon or orange zest for a refreshing burst of citrus that balances the creaminess.
Choco-Love: Mix in mini chocolate chips right before serving for a delightful chocolatey surprise.
Sweet Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of spicy honey to elevate the flavor profile with some warmth.
Leftover Hero: Use cooked leftover rice for a quick preparation; simply reduce the cooking time and adjust liquids as needed.

Each variation offers an opportunity to explore new flavors and textures while keeping the essence of this beloved dish alive!

Expert Tips for Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding

Rice Rinsing: Rinse the short grain rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring a creamy texture in your stovetop Lebanese rice pudding.
Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on cooking times. Cook the rice until tender, but avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy pudding.
Thickening Trick: If your pudding ends up too thin, gradually add more cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly to reach the desired thickness without lumps.
Floral Flavor Adjustments: Start with a smaller amount of orange blossom or rose water and adjust to taste—too much can easily overwhelm the dish’s delicate flavors.
Garnish Creatively: Don’t shy away from garnishes! Crushed pistachios, rose petals, or a drizzle of honey not only enhance aesthetics but also add delightful textures and flavors.

Stovetop Lebanese Rice Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Lebanese rice pudding?
For the best texture, I recommend using short grain rice. It provides the essential creaminess that makes the pudding luxurious. Medium grain rice works well too, but avoid long-grain rice as it may yield a less creamy texture.

How should I store leftover rice pudding?
Store your stovetop Lebanese rice pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To prevent a skin from forming, cover the surface with plastic wrap directly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a gentle stir!

Can I freeze leftover rice pudding?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pudding in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before freezing, and leave some space in the container for expansion. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

What if my pudding is too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your pudding is too thick, gradually stir in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with milk to create a slurry and stir it in over low heat until thickened. This method ensures a smooth pudding each time!

Are there any dietary considerations for rice pudding?
Yes! If you’re concerned about dairy, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk to make a delightful dairy-free version. Additionally, those with nut allergies should be cautious with any garnishes like crushed pistachios. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.