How to Make the Perfect Roz Bel Laban
Egyptian · Easy · 45 min · 6 servings
Roz bel laban is Egypts creamy beloved rice pudding, slow cooked in whole milk until silky and thick then perfumed with rose water and vanilla. It is served chilled or warm and topped with cinnamon and crushed pistachios, making it a timeless Egyptian comfort dessert.
Why this recipe works
This Roz Bel Laban recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 260 calories with 7g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 0.75 cup short grain white rice
- 1 liter whole milk
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons crushed pistachios
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Start the Pudding
Rinse rice well and combine with whole milk in a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently from the beginning to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pot.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Thick
Reduce heat to low and cook for 30 to 35 minutes stirring every 2 to 3 minutes until the rice is completely soft and the mixture has thickened to a creamy porridge like consistency. The milk should reduce by about one third.
Step 3: Add Sweetener and Flavor
Remove from heat and stir in sugar, vanilla extract, and rose water. Taste and adjust sweetness and rose water to your preference as rose water can be strong.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
Pour into individual serving bowls or a large dish and allow to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set then dust with ground cinnamon and scatter crushed pistachios over the top before serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- whole milk → full fat coconut milk for a dairy free version
- short grain rice → arborio rice for extra creaminess
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using high heat which causes the milk to scorch on the bottom and creates a burnt flavor throughout
- Not stirring frequently enough which causes the rice to stick and the pudding to become lumpy
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 260 calories, 7g protein, 42g carbs, 7g fat, 1g fiber.
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