Arroz Con Dulce: Puerto Rican Rice Pudding
[Vegan]

Soak the rice in water for at least two hours, overnight is better. Make the tea by adding the water and all of the ingredients for the tea and to a pot and bringing it to a boil. Let it steep for 35 minutes. If water begins to evaporate as it’s boiling add more water. Set aside.

Drain the rice. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the tea with all of its ingredients, evaporated coconut milk, coconut milk, vanilla, water, rice, salt, and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer while stirring consistently until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked. Make sure to keep stirring so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan and burn. Taste the rice to make sure it's tender.

Once the rice is cooked, remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, pieces of ginger, and the star anise and discard. Add the cane and brown sugar and continue to stir. Stir in the raisins (optional).

Cover the pot and continue to cook for 10 minutes stirring every 2 minutes. It should be a thick consistency. Remove from heat and serve in ramekins or in a serving dish.

Sprinkle some cinnamon on top and store it in the refrigerator until it’s cold. You can also enjoy it warm.