Christmas Finnish Rice Porridge
The ultimate comfort food, Christmas Finnish Rice Porridge is creamy, warm, and perfect for chilly winter days. With simple ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying dish, you'll want to make it tonight!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Frying Pan
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 300 ml Water
- 150 g Short grain rice
- 700 ml Whole milk
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- Butter to taste
- 2 tbsp Sugar or to taste
- 1 Almond optional
- Cinnamon for sprinkling on top, or any sweet topping of your choice
- 2 tbsp Blueberry sauce
- 2 tbsp Raisin sauce
- 400 g Bilberries fresh or frozen
- 200 ml Water
- 150 g Sugar
Instructions
- Start by preparing your cooking area; gather all the ingredients. It’s crucial to have everything within reach. Begin by placing 300 ml of water in a non-stick saucepan and bring it to a boil. The choice of cookware is essential to prevent sticking and burning.
- Once the water is boiling, add 150 g of short grain rice and 1/2 tsp of salt to the pan. Stir gently, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed in the boiling water. This step is vital for an even cook. Lower the heat slightly and let it simmer.
- As the rice absorbs the water, keep a close eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the rice to become tender and fluffy, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once you notice the water has mostly evaporated, it’s time for the next step.
- Carefully pour in 700 ml of whole milk, raising the heat back to medium. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil again. The milk will add a creamy texture to your porridge. Stir often to avoid scorching the bottom.
- Once the milk is boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pan. Cook the porridge for another 40 to 60 minutes. During this time, be sure to stir every so often, checking for the perfect consistency. You want it to be smooth and creamy, not too thick.
- After the cooking time is complete, take the pan off the heat and stir in butter to taste and 2 tbsp of sugar. This will add richness and sweetness to the dish. Adjust the sugar based on your preference.
- Now it’s time to serve! Scoop the hot porridge into individual bowls or ramekins. Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top or any desired sweet topping, making it visually appealing and adding flavor.
- If you'd like to prepare a berry sauce, in a separate saucepan, mix 400 g of bilberries, 200 ml of water, and 150 g of sugar. Bring this mixture slowly to a boil, crushing the berries with a spoon. This will create a fresh, sweet sauce to complement your porridge.
- After a few minutes of cooking, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds and skins. Your berry sauce should be smooth and ready to drizzle over the porridge.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently when ready to enjoy again.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze porridge in individual servings. Just reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Variations: Try adding different toppings such as jam, fresh fruits, or different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- Cooking Tools: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heating and preventing burning.
- Serving Style: Serve warm in individual bowls with a topping bar for a fun, interactive meal.