One of my favorite holiday dishes is something my family simply calls “rice”. It’s simple rice pudding with four ingredients:
– white rice
– milk
– sugar
– cinnamon
(Raisins if you are so bold, I am not!)

Scandinavian tradition holds that families make this rice on the new year and if the rice is thick the new year will be blessed. If the rice turns thin then gird your loins for a rough year. I didn’t get to spend New Years with my family so I made a batch of rice to make myself feel better.

Step one: steamed white rice in my rice cooker.

Step two: add milk and sugar (I don’t measure, just use my best judgment and taste until its delicious!)

Step three: simmer until thick and wonderful

Step four: serve warm with cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top and a cup of cold milk for dipping (not pictured)

There are a thousand ways to make this dish, just google it and you’ll see what I mean! And it varies from country to country and family to family. I just wanted to give you a peak into mine. It’s a simple dish and not terribly fancy but on a cold snowy winter day…..it makes me feel closer to my family and heritage. Plus, my rice was thick and creamy so I’m looking forward to a good year!

I’m off to enjoy the snow! Happy New Year to all!!!!