Coconut Cardamom Rice Pudding

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A creamy, aromatic dessert that turns humble rice into pure comfort.

🌿 Introduction

This Coconut Cardamom Rice Pudding came to life one quiet December night when I was craving something gentle — something that would fill the kitchen with warmth without demanding attention. As the rice simmered slowly in coconut milk, the cardamom bloomed like incense, and the whole house felt wrapped in peace.

It’s a simple dessert — nothing fancy, nothing fussy — but every spoonful feels like grace: soft, fragrant, and satisfying. In my heart, it’s the kind of recipe that invites you to slow down, stir with patience, and remember that sweetness often comes from long, steady heat.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and comforting with just the right touch of spice.
• Naturally dairy-free and vegan.
• Easy to make ahead — perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
• Customizable with fruits, nuts, or flavor variations.
• A gentle, soothing treat after a long day.

🕰️ Quick Reference Snapshot

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Skill Level: Easy
Equipment: Saucepan, wooden spoon, whisk
Dietary Info: Vegan, gluten-free

🍚 Ingredients

(US + Metric)

• ¾ cup (150 g) short-grain or Arborio rice
• 2 cans (13.5 oz / 800 mL total) coconut milk
• 1 cup (240 mL) water
• ⅓ cup (65 g) sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp ground cardamom
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: toasted coconut flakes, chopped pistachios, pomegranate arils, or dried fruit

🌱 Seasonal Swaps

• Replace cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozier twist.
• Add orange zest and a drizzle of maple syrup for holiday brightness.
• Stir in diced pears or apples near the end for a fruity variation.

🌿 From My Garden

Cardamom isn’t something I grow in my own soil, but I treasure the herbs that echo its warmth — mint, basil, and thyme. When I cook with spices like these, I think of the gardens around the world that grow what mine can’t. It’s a reminder that the soil of grace extends far beyond our own backyards.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Prepare

1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs mostly clear.
2. Combine rice, coconut milk, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.

Simmer

1. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook 30–35 minutes, until rice is tender and mixture thickens.

Finish

1. Stir in sugar, cardamom, vanilla, and salt.
2. Simmer 5 minutes more, stirring often, until creamy.
3. Serve warm or chilled, topped with your favorite garnishes.

🍽 Serving & Pairing Suggestions

• Top with toasted coconut and pistachios for texture.
• Serve with Pear & Thyme Upside-Down Cake for an elegant dessert pairing.
• Add alongside Moroccan Chickpea Stew for a global-inspired dinner.
• Enjoy with Mulled Pomegranate & Apple Cider or Winter Herbal Tea for cozy evenings.
• For breakfast, serve chilled with sliced fruit and honey.

🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead

• Store in the refrigerator up to 4 days.
• Add a splash of coconut milk when reheating to loosen texture.
• Freezes up to 2 months — thaw overnight and stir before serving.

✨ Final Thoughts

This pudding is a reminder that comfort can be quiet. There’s no rush in its making — just the gentle rhythm of stirring and waiting. It’s a sweet lesson in patience, in trusting the process, and in finding beauty in the small, steady work of tending what’s before you.

As the fragrance fills your home, may it bring peace to your spirit and warmth to your winter table. 🕯️💛

🤝 Community & Connection

• Instagram — Daily garden moments & behind-the-scenes; tag your dish so I can cheer you on! 🌿📸
• Subscribe — Fresh recipes, seasonal tips, and printable freebies delivered weekly. ✉🍂
• Join FB Group — Ask questions, swap ideas, and share what’s growing with a kind, garden-loving community. 🌱🫶

🛒 Favorites from My Kitchen to Yours

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• Saucepan set — perfect for slow simmering.
• Wooden spoon set — gentle for stirring and tasting.
• Coconut milk brand — creamy, rich, and pantry-stable.

🌻 Related on Southern Soil Sunshine

• [Pear & Thyme Upside-Down Cake] — A delightful dessert pairing for gatherings.
• [Herbal Energy Bites] — For light, nourishing snacks in between.
• [Moroccan Chickpea Stew with Preserved Lemons] — Global flavor with warm spice.
• [Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Tart] — Elegant and colorful, just like this dish.
• [Midnight Grace Bread (Citrus & Cranberry Loaf)] — Another sweet way to end a winter meal.