I first stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s rice pudding recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I was flipping through one of his cookbooks when the simplicity of the dish caught my eye. A humble dessert, but with so much potential for comfort and nostalgia. I’ve always had a soft spot for rice pudding; it reminds me of cozy nights at my grandma’s house, sitting by the fire with a bowl of warm, creamy rice pudding, topped with a spoonful of homemade jam. Jamie’s twist with strawberry jam just felt like the perfect marriage of simplicity and indulgence.
This dessert isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s slow-cooked, with the kind of warmth that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket, watching the rain outside. Jamie’s recipe brings that childhood memory alive, but with his signature touch that makes even the simplest of ingredients taste like a gourmet creation.
Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s take on rice pudding with strawberry jam is one of those dishes that feels like it was made with care. He keeps it simple yet brings it to life with bold flavors. This recipe is ideal when you’re craving something comforting, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
- 150g pudding rice – This is the key! It’s the type of rice that absorbs the milk and transforms into that creamy consistency.
- 1 liter whole milk – Full-fat milk gives it a rich and smooth texture. It’s what gives the pudding that dreamy, creamy quality.
- 2 tbsp sugar – Sweetness is essential, but we keep it minimal. The jam will also contribute to the sugar, so we balance it out.
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 tsp vanilla extract) – The aroma and flavor of vanilla elevate the pudding to something extraordinary.
- 1 pinch of sea salt – A touch of salt enhances the flavor of the milk and rice.
- 250g good-quality strawberry jam – This is the star! You want a jam with a bold strawberry flavor that adds a fresh sweetness to the rich pudding.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam
- Prepare the rice: Start by rinsing your rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This helps the pudding stay creamy instead of becoming too thick and sticky.
- Simmer the milk: In a large saucepan, pour in the milk and add the vanilla pod (or extract) and a pinch of salt. Gently heat over medium-low heat, being careful not to boil it. Stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t scorch.
- Cook the rice: Once the milk is heated, add the rinsed rice and sugar. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes or so. The rice should absorb the milk and become soft and creamy.
- Add the jam: Once the rice pudding reaches a thick, creamy consistency, remove it from the heat. Swirl in the strawberry jam and mix gently. The jam should melt slightly, creating swirls of vibrant pink throughout the pudding.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the rice pudding into bowls, making sure each serving gets a generous amount of jam. The jam will add a burst of fresh flavor to the creamy pudding. If you’re feeling fancy, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh strawberries on top for an extra touch.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Rice pudding might seem like a simple dessert, but there’s a lot of science behind it. The rice, which is a starchy grain, absorbs the milk and releases its starch as it cooks. This process thickens the milk and creates the smooth texture we love. Here’s the breakdown of what’s happening:
- The starch: When rice cooks in liquid, the starch granules in the rice absorb moisture and swell. This gelatinizes the starch, which turns the milk into a thick, creamy consistency.
- Milk proteins: As the milk heats up, the proteins start to unravel and interact with the starch, helping the pudding set into a soft, velvety texture.
- Vanilla: Vanilla’s complex aromatic compounds, like vanillin, contribute to the dessert’s rich flavor profile by creating a warm and inviting scent and taste.
Expert Tips
- Low and slow: Don’t rush the cooking process. Cooking the rice over low heat ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn or stick to the pot. Patience is key for the perfect creamy texture.
- Stir often: Stirring helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures that the pudding is creamy. However, don’t stir too aggressively or too frequently, as you want the rice to maintain its texture.
- Customize your jam: While strawberry is classic, feel free to experiment with different flavors of jam. Raspberry, blackberry, or even apricot can all bring their own unique flair to the pudding.
- Chill it: If you like your rice pudding chilled, let it cool at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. It will thicken up even more as it cools, giving you a decadent treat to enjoy later.
Recipe Variations
- Coconut rice pudding: Swap out the whole milk for coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds a lovely tropical flavor. Pair it with mango jam or even toasted coconut flakes.
- Spiced rice pudding: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the milk mixture to infuse the pudding with aromatic spices. This is great for autumn or the holiday season.
- Chocolate lovers: Stir in some cocoa powder or melt chocolate into the pudding for a rich, indulgent twist. Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
- Baked rice pudding: If you prefer your pudding with a crispy top, try baking it. Pour the cooked pudding into a greased baking dish, sprinkle with sugar, and bake at 160°C for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden and caramelized.
Final Words
Rice pudding is one of those timeless dishes that can transport you back to simpler times. The beauty of Jamie Oliver’s version lies in its simplicity: just a few basic ingredients elevated by the warmth of the milk, the creaminess of the rice, and the sweet tang of the strawberry jam. It’s a dish you can customize, make ahead, or enjoy right away.
If you’ve never made rice pudding from scratch before, this is the perfect recipe to start with. It’s easy, comforting, and filled with the kind of flavors that bring people together. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make your own with little twists here and there. So go ahead and give it a try-you’ll soon find that rice pudding isn’t just a dessert. It’s a hug in a bowl.
FAQs
Can I Use A Different Type Of Rice For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use arborio rice or any other short-grain rice. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
How Long Does This Rice Pudding Need To Cook?
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the heat and how creamy you want it.
Can I Make The Pudding Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.