Mehalabia (yemeni Spiced Rice Pudding)

Mehalabia is a traditional Yemeni spiced rice pudding that is creamy, aromatic, and comforting. It is a popular dessert in Yemeni cuisine, often served during special occasions and celebrations.

Mehalabia (yemeni Spiced Rice Pudding)

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup short-grain rice
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup rose water, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the rice and milk. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened.
  3. Stir in the sugar, ground cardamom, and ground cinnamon. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mehalabia cool slightly.
  5. Divide the mehalabia into serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
  6. Before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios and a drizzle of rose water.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Protein
4g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
7g

Supplies

Saucepan Stirring spoon Serving bowls

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Mehalabia can be served chilled as a refreshing dessert after a rich Yemeni meal.

Tips & tricks

For a creamier texture, you can use evaporated milk instead of whole milk in this recipe.

Cost

$5