Baked Rice Pudding

Bridget Sellars
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This rice pudding captures the precise flavour I remember from my childhood. It's the one my mother used to prepare for our family when I was young.


The recipe book originated as a wedding gift to my mother, featuring a green fabric hardcover that became quite worn. During my school years, I covered it with brown paper. Years later, I removed the brown paper and re-covered the book with a thick, adhesive shelf liner commonly known as Fablon.

Ideas, Advice and Suggestions

Cooked rice – I usually eat long grain rice, so that's what I have always used. It is made using leftover cooked white rice.

Sugar – I typically use granulated white sugar, but I'm confident it would work with other non-liquid substitutes. However, honey and maple syrup might alter the consistency.

Vanilla essence – Half a teaspoon of vanilla essence should suffice. The original recipe recommends the grated rind of one lemon, which I have not yet tried.

Milk – I have used full cream cow's milk; although low-fat milk also works, it requires less cooking time.

Eggs – Large, Extra Large, or Jumbo sizes are all suitable options.

Salt – I make it a point to add a little salt to every sweet recipe.

Recipe Template

Baked Rice Pudding

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Total Time: 40-50 minutes


Servings: 4 servings

Level of Difficulty: Medium

The Origin of the Recipe: Old Green Recipe Book

Diet: Gluten Free

A delicious baked rice pudding made with simple ingredients. Serve with syrup, honey or applesauce for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • ½ cup (100g) of sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla essence
  • 2 cups (500ml) of milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

  • Heat the milk and add the rice.
  • Beat the egg yolks with the sugar and salt, slowly adding the milk mixture.
  • Beat the egg whites till stiff and fold into the mixture. Add the essence and pour into a greased, fireproof baking dish.
  • Bake in a moderate oven 300°F or 160°c for 30 to 40 minutes or until set.
  • Serve with the syrup, honey or applesauce.

Notes

  • The egg whites may be beaten and used to top the pudding like a meringue, in which case 2 tablespoons of sugar are beaten into the whites.
  • Whole eggs can instead be beaten in with sugar and salt.
  • Yellow Rice

    Bridget Sellars
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    I previously relied on Robertson's rice spice for making yellow rice, but after switching to a gluten-free diet, I had to find an alternative. I was thrilled to come across this recipe on the Instant Pot website, and it has proven to be reliably successful with every attempt.
    Instant Pot Recipes Turmeric Rice (Kashmiri Tahar Yellow Rice) – Instant Pot


    This recipe produces a large amount of rice, so you have the option to reduce the ingredients, or you might be pleased to learn that it freezes exceptionally well.

    Ideas, Advice and Suggestions

    Rice: The original recipe called for Basmati long grain rice, but I've found that standard rice always works well for me.

    Water: The only drawback of the original recipe was that it didn't specify the amount of water to use in the Instant Pot, which I was unfamiliar with at the time.

         Ground Turmeric: A small amount can have a significant impact, so resist the urge to use more than half a teaspoon on your first attempt.

    Salt: Salt can be adjusted after cooking.

    Butter: Don't skip this step, as it significantly improves the rice. I typically use butter, and although the original recipe calls for "1 tbsp of ghee or mustard oil, clarified butter," I believe it could work with other substitutes as well don't skip this step though it does make a differnce.

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    Yellow Rice (Kashmiri Tahar Yellow Rice)

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    Preparation Time: 10 minutes

    Cooking Time: 12 minutes

    Total Time: 22 minutes


    Servings: 4 servings

    Level of Difficulty: Medium

    The Origin of the Recipe: Turmeric Rice (Kashmiri Tahar Yellow Rice) – Instant Pot

    Diet: Gluten-free

    Just 4 simple ingredients make up this Yellow Rice (Kashmiri Tahar Yellow Rice) dish that will blow your mind! Kids and adults alike will be begging you to make it again! This traditional Kashmiri rice recipe turns your basic white rice into a vibrant and flavourful side dish.

    Ingredients

    • 420g / 2 cups rice (long grain, rinsed and soaked for 10 minutes in 4 cups water)
    • 2 1/2 cups Water for cooking
    • 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tbsp Butter

    Instructions

    • Soak the rice in 4 cups water for about 10 minutes. Rinse the rice well until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in 4 cups water for about 10 minutes. This step is key since it makes the rice nice and fluffy.
    • When you are ready to cook, discard the water. Add the rice to the Instant Pot. Furthermore, add 2 1/2 cups of water to the inner pot. Next, add in ground turmeric and salt. Stir well.
    • Close the lid and select Manual for 6 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes and then quick release the pressure.
    • Finally, open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, add ghee or smoked mustard oil, and mix well.

    Apple and Rooibos Cold Brew Iced Tea

    Bridget Sellars
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    This is a new experience for me; it started a few weeks ago when my sister shared it with me, but she actually got the recipe from her daughter, so the credit goes to Kaylin. 


    Since then, I have been experimenting with various tea and juice combinations, as well as teas without juice, which I plan to publish after several tests. Currently, I have two bottles in the fridge: Green Tea and Apple Tea.

    Ideas, Advice and Suggestions

    Water – I use tap water it would work well filtered water would or even of course pre boiled water room temperature water
    Rooibos Tea 
    - I have tried with 3 brands of Rooibos tea, and I rank the taste as follows:-
     1. Five Roses Rooibos Tea
     2. Laager Rooibos Tea
     3. Freshpak Rooibos Tea
    Fruit Juice - Liqui Fruit Clear Apple
    Sugar
     - While I opt for granulated white sugar, you can definitely use various types of sugar or sugar substitutes—simply modify the quantity to suit your taste.

    Recipe Template

    Apple and Rooibos Iced Tea

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    Preparation Time: at least 2 h

    Cooking Time:

    Total Time: at least 2 h


    Servings: 4-6 glasses

    Level of Difficulty: Easy

    The Origin of the Recipe: Kaylin

    Diet: Free from Caffeine

    Homemade iced tea to enjoy on those warm summer days.

    Ingredients

    • 1 L of water, pre-boiled and at room temperature.
    • 1 Rooibos tea bag (Five Roses)
    • 1 ½ cup Apple juice (Liqui Fruit Clear Apple)
    • Granulated White Sugar, as needed (4-6 tablespoons)

    Instructions

    • Add one litre of pre-boiled room temperature water to a container that can be sealed.
    • Insert a Rooibos tea bag. Let the tea steep for at least two hours or longer if you desire a more robust flavour.
    • Add the apple juice and sugar (if using) to the tea.
    • Ensure it's cold, pour it into a glass, and enjoy.

    Notes

    Adjust the steeping time according to your taste; the 2-hour recommendation in this recipe yields a mild flavor, but for a stronger rooibos taste, steeping for 3 hours or more is advisable.

    Gluten Free Savoury Puffs

    Bridget Sellars
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    This recipe has been adapted from a step-by-step cookbook complete with photos, and I have been preparing it even before I adopted a gluten-free diet. Since going gluten-free, I have frequently used this recipe.

    Ideas, Advice and Suggestions(cont.)

    Baking Powder – Two teaspoons may seem excessive, but this recipe appears to require that amount. Baking powder is typically gluten-free, though it often contains cornstarch.
    Salt and Pepper – Be particularly cautious with adding salt to the recipe because both the meat and cheese already contain salt.
    Large Eggs – I use whatever I have which varies between Large, Extra Large and Jumbo I’ve never had any issues
    Margerine – I have only used baking margarines that contain between 60% and 75% fat, so I'm uncertain about the outcomes when using lower-fat margarine.
    Milk(cows) – You can warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. I've tried low-fat, full-cream fresh milk, and UHT milk; all options have been successful. well.
    Ham, Bacon or Chicken - Remember, if you're following a gluten-free diet, most preserved meats contain some gluten unless they're specifically labeled as gluten-free. These meats should be fully cooked before incorporating them into the batter. I frequently use leftover breast meat from a rotisserie chicken and add ham for extra moisture, although any type of chicken is suitable. You can use any single type or combination of meats for moisture; I've even added corn, and it has worked well. Approximately 125g is the right amount for this recipe, give or take a little. For bacon, chop and fry it until it's cooked but not crispy.  
    Medium Onion – I adore onions, and for me, they are a must-have ingredient. Simply place them in a pot or pan (along with a peeled, chopped tomato if you're using one), and add enough water to cover them. Boil until they're soft, adding a pinch of salt to aid the softening process. A little browning is fine, but avoid creating hard, crispy pieces. Ensure all the liquid is cooked off, so you don't introduce extra moisture into the batter.
    Medium/Small Tomato(optional) – It must be peeled, chopped, and cooked down like the onion, which adds a certain something to the flavor. You can add a bit more onion or meat if you choose to omit it.
    How to peel a Tomato – On the side opposite the stem, make a small cross in the skin using a sharp knife. Place the tomato in a bowl large enough to submerge it completely and pour boiling water over the scored marks. Leave it in the water for 2 minutes. Then, discard the hot water and cover the tomato with cold water (the colder, the better). If possible, use ice water and leave the tomato for another 2 minutes. The skin should peel off effortlessly.

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    Gluten-free Savoury Puffs

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    Preparation Time: 20 minutes

    Cooking Time: 15 minutes

    Total Time: 35 minutes


    Servings: 12 puffs

    Level of Difficulty: Level of Difficulty - Easy

    The Origin of the Recipe: Adapted from to gluten-free from Cooking Step-by Step 2 recipe book

    Diet: Special diet: gluten-free

    A simple recipe that yields excellent results, utilizes leftovers, and is indistinguishably gluten-free can be a great way to repurpose food.

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup (130g) Woolworths Free from Gluten All-Purpose flour (All-Purpose Wheat Flour)
    • 10ml (2 teaspoons) baking powder
    • 2 large eggs
    • 125g margarine, melted
    • 125ml (½ cup) warm milk
    • 125g ham, bacon or cooked chicken, diced
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 1 medium/small tomato, peeled and chopped(optional)
    • 250ml (1 cup) grated cheddar cheese, mild is better
    • pinch of cayenne pepper
    • pinch of salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C/160°C for fan assist). Grease a 12 capacity standard-sized muffin pan, set aside.
    • If you are using bacon fry but not too crispy. Soften onion and tomato by frying in a little water do not brown
    • Mix dry ingredients combine the flour, baking powder, salt and pepper
    • Beat the eggs with melted margarine and warm milk
    • Mix in the mince and onions and leave on low heat.
    • Add the bacon (ham or chicken) onion, tomato and cheese to the dry ingredients
    • Combine with egg mixture
    • Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes till golden
    • Remove from pan after 5 minutes, remove from pans and cool completely on wire rack.

    Notes

  • Corn can be substituted for or added to meat.
  • Cottage Pie

    Bridget Sellars
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    This recipe is one that my maternal grandmother often used, and she meticulously typed it out.


    The minced meat component of this recipe is my go-to when I want to create a filling for pancakes. In the past, I've also used it for toasted sandwiches and Vetkoek.

    Ideas, Advice and Suggestions

    Potatoes -Most types of potatoes are suitable, but those recommended for mashing are preferable to avoid a grainy texture.

    Beef Mince - I've only prepared this with beef mince. I usually opt for lean mince, but I avoid the ultra-lean variety because it often requires adding oil during frying.
    Onion - Yellow or Brown onions work well
    Water and /or White Wine -I typically use a dry white wine; I have tried red wine, but the outcome was not satisfactory.
    Bisto - This is one of those products not labeled as gluten-free, yet the ingredients listed on the box do not mention gluten. This applies only to the original Bisto, as all the newer versions contain gluten.
    Flour or Corn Starch -Cornstarch is effective, but if gluten isn't a concern, then flour is also acceptable.
    Tabasco -I can detect even a few drops, but if your tolerance is higher, you might need to add more.

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    Cottage Pie

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    Preparation Time: 20 minutes

    Cooking Time: 35 minutes

    Total Time: 55 minutes


    Servings: 4-5

    Level of Difficulty: Easy

    The Origin of the Recipe: Grandmother

    Diet: Gluten-free

    This is my grandmother's Shepherd's Pie recipe (I'm aware it's not traditional Shepherd's Pie as it doesn't contain lamb), modified with a few tweaks to make it gluten-free and to omit ingredients I don't use. The minced meat component has evolved into a versatile addition to other dishes.

    Ingredients

    • 4 Large Potatoes
    • 500g beef mince
    • 1 large onion
    • 1 cup of water for gravy (or ½ cup water and ½ cup white wine)
    • 2 teaspoons Bisto
    • 2 teaspoons flour or cornflour
    • Few drops of Tabasco sauce
    • Salt and Pepper to Taste

    Instructions

    • Peel potatoes and put on to boil, steam or cook in a pressure cooker.
    • Dice onion, heat a teaspoon of fat or oil and fry the onion until golden brown.
    • Remove from and brown the mince in the pan.
    • Remove mince and make gravy by mixing Bisto and flour with a little water, add Tabasco and salt and mix in the rest of the water and the wine in the frying pan until boiling.
    • Mix in the mince and onions and leave on low heat.
    • Pre-heat oven to 150°C to 160°C (Medium).
    • When potatoes are cooked, mash first with butter then add some milk until they are fairly soft. Add salt and pepper to taste.
    • Grease pyrex dish and put meat mixture in. Fork the potatoes over the top and bake for about ½ to ¾ hour.

    Notes

    The original recipe calls for Angostura Bitters and Tabasco Sauce, but if you're out of Tabasco, you can substitute it with some red or black pepper.