Muhallabieh

This Middle Eastern  pudding (Muhallabieh) is a favorite both in summer and winter, especially liked by children. In the Middle East the rice may be purchased already pulverized. It could also be pulverized at home with a mortar and pestle or in an electric blender.

Ingredients:

• 1 qt. milk
• 1/4 cup pounded rice
• 3/4 cup water
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ma'ez zahr (orange blossom essence)
• 1/4 cup chopped blanched almonds and skinned pistachio nuts

Preparation:

1. Mix rice with water and add to milk which has been brought to a boil.
2. Stir and cook until thickened and then add sugar.
3. Continue cooking and stirring until mixture coats the spoon.
4. Add flavorings and boil a few minutes longer.
5. Pour into individual serving dishes and decorate with chopped nuts.