Coconut Chai Rice Pudding

I got a craving for rice pudding the other day. Since I happen to be cleaning out the cupboards, I figured now is as good a time as any to make some! I managed to use up not only some rice, but some coconut flakes, AND some raisins.

A really quick shout-out to some of my favorite brands, while I'm doing this. I used GoldenStar brand for the rice and coconut milk, and Tropical Traditions for the coconut flakes. I also used STASH chai tea.

It's an easy recipe, and takes wonderfully little time. Best part... delicious!

Coconut Chai Rice Pudding

Ingredients:
1 cup of (basmati) rice
1/2 cup coconut flakes
1 cup raisins
3 cups water
2 chai tea bags

1 can coconut milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/8 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ginger
1/8 tsp cloves
1/8 tsp allspice
Sweetener to taste

Start with combining rice, raisins, coconut flakes, tea bags and water in a medium sauce pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and let simmer 15-20 minutes.

In a bowl, whisk coconut milk, vanilla, salt, sweetener and spices together. Pour them into the rice mixture and heat on low, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Reduce to desired thickness. Serve warm or cold.

And that's it!

It's gotta be my favorite rice pudding recipe to date, and makes a yummy breakfast. I love all the spices and flavors. You can spice it up a little with some garam masala or black pepper if you like. I added a bit of black pepper as an afterthought and it was amazing! Who knew you could enjoy pepper in a dessert?