How to Make Creamy Delicious Nigerian Rice Pudding: A Step-by-Step Guide

9jakitchenblog
August 12, 2025

Introducing Nigerian Rice Pudding

Nigerian rice pudding is a delightful treat that brings comfort and indulgence to any table. Known for its creamy texture and rich flavours, this pudding combines the simplicity of rice with a blend of aromatic spices and sweet ingredients. The dish often showcases the versatility of Nigerian cuisine, where traditional elements meet modern tastes. Each spoonful of this creamy delicacy transports you to a world of warmth, reminding many of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

Whether served as a dessert or a special breakfast, Nigerian rice pudding is sure to satisfy your cravings while offering a taste of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Its unique flavour profile, often enhanced with coconut, vanilla, or nutmeg, makes it an irresistible choice for both comfort food lovers and adventurous eaters alike.

Equipment Needed

Cooking pot or Rice Cooker
Measuring cups
Bowls for washing
Frying Pan
Blending machine

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients needed to prepare this creamy, mouthwatering dish;

1 cup rice (preferably short-grain or sticky rice)
4 cups water
1 can (400ml) coconut milk
1 cup evaporated milk
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional toppings: raisins, chopped nuts, or grated coconut

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the pudding from becoming too sticky.
Rinse until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a large saucepan, add the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water.
Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the water.

Step 3: Add the Coconut and Evaporated Milk

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the coconut milk and evaporated milk.
Mix thoroughly to combine.

Step 4: Sweeten and Flavour

Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the rice mixture.
Stir well and let it cook on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Cook until the mixture reaches the desired consistency.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the pudding and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Once ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
You can serve it warm or chilled, based on your preference.

Step 6: Add Toppings (Optional)

Before serving, you can add toppings such as raisins, chopped nuts, grated coconut, fried plantains, bananas, strawberries, or a combination of these for added texture and flavour.

Nigerian Rice Pudding served with Strawberries

Enjoy your creamy Nigerian rice pudding! It makes for a delightful dessert or a comforting breakfast.

Tips to make Nigerian Rice Pudding

Here are some tips to make a creamy and delicious Nigerian rice pudding, often known as “rice and beans pudding” or simply “rice pudding”:

Choose the Right Rice: Use a short-grain or medium-grain rice, as they are starchy and can help create a creamy texture. Arborio rice is a good option if you can find it.
Soak the Rice: Before cooking, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes. This helps to soften the grains and reduce cooking time.
Use Coconut Milk: Incorporating coconut milk can enhance the creaminess and add a rich flavour. Using a blend of coconut milk and regular milk (or water) can give the pudding a lovely texture.
Add Sugar Gradually: Start with a small amount of sugar and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away if you add too much.
Flavour with Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, or vanilla to elevate the flavour of your rice pudding. A pinch of salt can also enhance the sweetness.
Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, use fresh milk or homemade coconut milk. Fresh ingredients often yield a better taste than processed alternatives.
Cook Low and Slow: Cook the rice on low heat to allow it to absorb the milk gradually, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This also helps achieve a creamy consistency.
Don’t Overcook: Monitor the rice closely and remove it from the heat just when it’s tender but still slightly firm. It will continue to cook a bit more from residual heat.
Add Fruits and Nuts: Top your pudding with fresh fruits like banana or mango and toasted nuts for added flavour and texture.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. This will help it thicken a bit more and enhance the flavour.