Middle Eastern Roz Bel Laban: Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

Updated at: 02/02/2025

Roz Bel Laban, or creamy rice pudding, is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert known for its comforting texture and subtly sweet flavor. This classic dish, often enjoyed warm or cold, boasts a rich history interwoven with regional variations, showcasing the diverse culinary landscape of the Middle East. From simple family gatherings to celebratory feasts, Roz Bel Laban holds a special place on tables across the region, representing a comforting tradition passed down through generations. The fragrant rice, simmered in creamy milk infused with delicate spices, creates a truly unforgettable experience.

This recipe offers a simplified yet authentic approach to preparing this cherished dessert, ensuring a delightful outcome even for novice cooks. We will guide you through each step, from preparing the rice to achieving the perfect creamy consistency. Ready to embark on a culinary journey and create your own batch of this irresistible Middle Eastern treat? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Tools Needed

  • Pot
  • Bowl
  • Ovenproof ramekin
  • Oven tray

Ingredients

  • Medium grain rice (Turkish Baldo recommended): 100g (½ cup)
  • Whole milk: 1350ml (5 ½ cups)
  • Sugar: 125g (½ cup + 2 tbsp)
  • Salt: ⅛ tsp
  • Cardamom pods/Cinnamon quills: Optional
  • Vanilla powder: 1 tsp
  • Cornstarch: 2 tsp
  • Cream: 150ml (⅔ cup)
  • Nuts/Cinnamon: For garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Rice

  • Wash the rice three times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
  • In a pot, combine 100g rice and 350ml milk. Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
Wash the rice three times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.Pre-cook the rice: In a pot, combine 100g rice and 350ml milk. Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Rice

Step 2. Cook the Rice Pudding

  • Add 950ml milk, 125g sugar, and a pinch of salt to the pre-cooked rice. Add whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon) if using. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
  • Mix 50ml milk and 2 tsp cornstarch until smooth.
  • Add cornstarch slurry to the rice mixture. Bring to a boil for one minute, then reduce heat.
Add 950ml milk, 125g sugar, and a pinch of salt to the pre-cooked rice. Add whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon) if using. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.Prepare the cornstarch slurry: Mix 50ml milk and 2 tsp cornstarch until smooth.Add cornstarch slurry to the rice mixture. Bring to a boil for one minute, then reduce heat.
Cook the Rice Pudding

Step 3. Finish and Flavor

  • Stir in vanilla powder and cream.
Stir in vanilla powder and cream.
Finish and Flavor

Step 4. Serve (Baked or Non-Baked)

  • Pour rice pudding into ramekins. Place ramekins in an oven tray filled halfway with water. Broil until caramelized (about 15 minutes).
  • Pour rice pudding into bowls and let it cool overnight to form a skin.
For baked version: Pour rice pudding into ramekins. Place ramekins in an oven tray filled halfway with water. Broil until caramelized (about 15 minutes).For non-baked version: Pour rice pudding into bowls and let it cool overnight to form a skin.
Serve (Baked or Non-Baked)

Read more: Basbousa Recipe: Middle Eastern Semolina Coconut Cake

Tips

  • Use medium-grain rice for the best texture. Long-grain rice may work but may have a different consistency.
  • Washing the rice is crucial to prevent a grainy texture.
  • Add whole spices early for better infusion, and essences or powders at the end.
  • The creamy consistency should coat your utensil.
  • Garnish with nuts or cinnamon.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of rice besides basmati for Roz Bel Laban?

While basmati is traditional and recommended for its long grains and fluffy texture, you can experiment with other short-grain rice varieties. Just be aware that cooking time might need adjustment.

2. How can I make my Roz Bel Laban even creamier?

Adding a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking will significantly increase the creaminess. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent lumps.


Enjoy your deliciously creamy and aromatic Roz Bel Laban! This simple recipe allows you to experience the comforting flavors of the Middle East right in your own kitchen. Share this delightful dessert with friends and family, and savor the sweet taste of tradition.