Cream of rice is a warm, smooth, and comforting breakfast dish that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy mornings. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gentle meal for sensitive stomachs, or just a delicious way to start your day, cream of rice fits the bill beautifully. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make cream of rice from scratch, share tips for perfect texture, and suggest some tasty toppings to elevate your bowl.
What Is Cream of Rice?
Cream of rice is a hot cereal made from finely ground rice. It’s similar to cream of wheat but uses rice instead of wheat, making it naturally gluten-free. The texture is silky and creamy, and it serves as a blank canvas for sweet or savory flavors. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with fruits, nuts, spices, or sweeteners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Rice (long grain brown rice works great)
– Water and/or milk (dairy or plant-based)
– A pinch of salt
– Optional: sweeteners like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup
– Optional: spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg
– Optional toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or butter
How to Make Cream of Rice: Step-by-Step
1. Grind the Rice
Start with dry rice. Use a high-speed blender or grain mill to grind the rice into a fine or coarse powder, depending on your texture preference. If you like a bit of texture, pulse until you have small rice granules; for a smoother cream, grind it finer. This homemade approach means no preservatives or packaging—just pure rice goodness.
2. Boil the Liquid
In a saucepan, bring a mixture of water and milk (or just water) to a boil. Using a blend of coconut milk and water can add a lovely creaminess and subtle flavor, but regular milk or plant-based milk also works well.
3. Add the Ground Rice
Reduce the heat to medium-low and gradually whisk in the ground rice. Stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes depending on how finely the rice is ground.
4. Simmer and Stir
Once the mixture starts to thicken, cover the pot and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking or burning at the bottom. The cream of rice should become smooth and creamy. If it gets too thick, add a little more liquid to loosen it up.
5. Season and Sweeten
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. For sweetness, stir in brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. You can also add ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Spoon your cream of rice into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, a pat of butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup all make excellent choices. The possibilities are endless.
Tips for Perfect Cream of Rice
– Use a high-speed blender for grinding rice to get the right texture quickly.
– Stir constantly during cooking to prevent lumps and burning.
– Adjust the liquid ratio to get your preferred consistency—more liquid for thinner, less for thicker.
– Try coconut milk or a milk-water blend for extra creaminess.
– Add sweeteners after cooking to avoid burning sugars.
– For a vegan version, use plant-based milk like soy or almond milk.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Cream of Rice
Cream of rice is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
– Sweet and Fruity: Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
– Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans with a dash of vanilla extract.
– Savory Twist: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, herbs, or cheese for a comforting savory bowl.
– Tropical Flair: Use coconut milk and top with pineapple chunks and shredded coconut.
– Dessert Style: Chill cream of rice in molds and serve with cocoa powder or chocolate flakes for a creamy dessert.
Cream of rice is a simple, nourishing dish that you can easily customize to suit your taste and dietary needs. Making it from scratch is straightforward and rewarding, giving you full control over ingredients and texture. So next time you want a warm, creamy breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl, try making your own cream of rice at home!