Sweet Rice Pudding

This is a traditional recipe from india and it has to be one of the best things ever. In india this dish is known as kheer.

Place the rice in a medium-sized bowl.

Fill the bowl with cold water and swirl the rice around to help remove the starch.

Carefully pour off the water , making sure not to pour out the rice that has settled to the bottom.

Repeat this step 7-8 times , or until the water is clear.

Fill the bowl with enough cold water to cover the rice by 2 inches.

Let the rice soak for 30 minutes.

Drain the rice and set aside.

Place the milk in a 6-8- quart pan over medium heat , uncovered , and bring to a boil.

This will take about 10-12 minutes.

Watch it carefully so it does not boil over , and stir frequently to prevent scorching.

Add the drained rice.

Return it to a boil.

This will take 1-2 minutes.

Reduce to a simmer and cook , uncovered , for 30-35 minutes.

The rice will absorb the milk as it cooks and thickens.

Stir frequently , occasionally mashing the rice with a whisk.

If the rice sticks , lower the heat.

After almost all the milk has been absorbed and the rice is very tender.

basmati rice, whole milk, granulated sugar, cardamom, unsalted shelled pistachios, dark raisins, blanched slivered almond