North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A creamy rice pudding infused with aromatic cardamom and a hint of star anise, inspired by the guiding North Star. This middle eastern-inspired desserts ready in about 50 minutes layers short-grain rice, whole milk, granulated sugar into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 260 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 5 min Cook: 45 min Serves 4 Middle Eastern cuisine 260 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Rinse 3/4 cup short-grain rice under cold water until water runs clear.
  2. Step 2: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 4 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 6 crushed green cardamom pods, 1 whole star anise, and 1/4 tsp salt.
  3. Step 3: Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring every 5 minutes, for about 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, discard the star anise and cardamom pods, and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon.
  6. Step 6: Spoon pudding into serving bowls and sprinkle 2 tbsp toasted sliced almonds on top.
  7. Step 7: Serve warm or chilled according to preference.

Frequently asked questions

How long does North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (5 min prep + 45 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with North Star Cardamom-Spiced Rice Pudding?

Middle Eastern desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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