Azteca Cocoa Rice Pudding

The Aztecs believed that cacao seeds were the gift of Quetzalcoatl, the God of wisdom who was hated by the other gods for giving cacao to humans. The seeds had so much value they were used as a form of currency. Originally prepared only as a drink, chocolate was served bitter and spicy. Often this gift from the gods was reserved for royalty and religious leadership. It was believed to give strength and so was added to a soldier's rations. Later it was seen as an aphrodisiac which made it much more popular. I have used their spirit as inspiration for this sweet and spicy rice pudding.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Calories: 314 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups white rice
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine water, rice, and cinnamon in a large pot; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, cover pot, and simmer until all the water has been absorbed, about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Mix milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cayenne pepper, and vanilla extract into rice mixture, increase heat to high; cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 3

Remove pot from heat and pour pudding into a large glass bowl; let sit for 30 minutes before serving.