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National Rice Pudding Day

Food · August 9

A day for rice pudding, the slow-cooked mix of rice, milk and sugar that turns up in kitchens around the world in many forms.

National Rice Pudding Day falls on Monday, August 9, 2027. That is 286 days away.

Rice pudding is rice cooked slowly in milk with sugar until the grains soften and the whole pot turns thick and creamy. It is one of the plainest desserts there is, and one of the most widespread.

Nearly every region that grows or trades rice has a version. Some are scented with cinnamon or nutmeg, others with cardamom, vanilla, citrus peel or rose water. Raisins are a common addition and a reliable source of family debate. Some cooks bake it in the oven until a golden skin forms on top, while others stir it on the stove the whole time and serve it loose and spoonable.

It can be eaten warm, at room temperature or cold from the refrigerator, and people tend to have firm opinions about which is correct. Short or medium grain rice gives a creamier result because those grains release more starch as they cook. Leftover cooked rice works too, which is how many home cooks have always made it.

Marking the day usually means making a pot, ordering a cup at a diner or bakery, or trying a version from a cuisine you have not tasted before. A small dusting of cinnamon on top is the classic finish in many American kitchens.

Ways to celebrate

• Make a stovetop batch with milk, rice, sugar and a pinch of salt.
• Try a version spiced with cardamom or flavored with citrus peel.
• Taste it warm and cold, then decide which you prefer.
• Ask an older relative how their family made rice pudding.
• Look for rice pudding on the dessert menu at a local diner.

Dates

All national days on August 9

Also on August 9

• National Book Lovers Day
• National Hand Holding Day

Categories: Food days