The history of Peruvian arroz con leche

During the process of conquest and colonization by the Spanish, many products, European recipes, and culinary techniques arrived in America. In short, this is how the very popular rice pudding in Spain became a staple in much of the United States.
During the first centuries of the viceroyalty in Peru, rice pudding was only prepared in convents. Over time, its consumption spread until it became as popular as it is today. And, of course, its recipe has also evolved to the point of great delicacy as it is known and enjoyed today.

Traditional Peruvian arroz con leche.

• One cup of rice.
• Two liters of whole milk.
• One cup of sugar.
• One can of condensed milk if you want more sweetness and creaminess.
• One cinnamon stick.
• The green part of the peel of a lemon.
• Clove: It is optional, but recommended.
• Ground cinnamon for decoration and an extra touch of flavor.
   

Preparation

1. Wash the rice with cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.
2. In a large pot, add the washed rice and pour in one liter of whole milk, along with the cinnamon stick and lemon peel. If you want, you can add one or two cloves for an additional aroma.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is soft and the mixture has begun to thicken. This process can take between 20 and 25 minutes.
4. When the rice is cooked, add the sugar or condensed milk. Many prefer to add the condensed milk and stir until the mixture is well combined.
5. Then, gradually add the other liter of milk, allowing the rice pudding to continue thickening while stirring for approximately 15 minutes, or until you reach the desired consistency. The thickness of the rice depends on your preference.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick, lemon peel, and clove, if added.
7. Let your rice pudding cool at room temperature, and then refrigerate it. When serving, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top to add a decorative touch and enhance the flavor.
    

Where to try Peruvian arroz con leche

 
Being such a popular dessert for people of all ages, you will find places to enjoy it throughout Peru. Here, we recommend some places where you can do so. 
 

Lima

Sabores peruanos: This restaurant offers a creamy and delicious rice pudding. They serve it with a touch of cinnamon sprinkled on top. Sabores Peruanos has two locations. One is located at Avenida Alfredo Benavides 2392 in Miraflores, and the other is situated at Avenida Javier Prado 6326 in La Molina.
Marabunta: Arroz con leche is one of the favorite desserts for diners in Marabunta. At Marabunta, they add a special touch to the traditional rice pudding recipe, which is why it is so popular. Marabunta has three locations. One on Avenida Guardia Peruana in Chorrillos, another on Avenida Horacio Urteaga 1526 in Jesús Marí, and a third on Avenida Villarán 714 in Surquillo.
 

Cusco

Mercado San Pedro: San Pedro is the market in Cusco that has the most options. Additionally, it is one of the most hygienic places, as many people visit it on a daily basis. It is located at Thupaq Amaru 477, Cusco 08002.
Pachapapa: A lunch or dinner at Pachapapa is an opportunity to experience the Cusco cuisine cult, dedicated to Mother Earth. You can try typical and tasty dishes, such as ají de gallina or roasted guinea pig, and finish with an unforgettable rice pudding.
It is located at Carmen Bajo 120, Cusco.
 

Machu Picchu

Chullos: This fascinating restaurant offers an exceptional culinary experience in the heart of Machu Picchu.
Each dish on the menu, from starters to desserts, such as Peruvian rice pudding, evokes the essence of that particular Peruvian region.
Ponchos Machu Picchu: At Imperio de los Incas 503 in Aguas Calientes, you can also enjoy delicious rice pudding, as well as everything else this renowned restaurant offers.

You have enjoyed rice pudding in your country, but we invite you to try Peruvian-style rice pudding. It will be an unforgettable part of your experience where the Incas once reigned.