Rice Pudding

No. Not your regular rice pudding. This version is amazingly luscious! Accompanied with its cinnamon spiciness are flavors of citrus that dance in the richness of this decadently creamy pleasure, and is irresistible when served fresh and warm. Really, need I say more? If you like rice pudding, you need this recipe! If you're into bland, or simple this probably isn't what you're looking for. But if you love all of the lavishness of Christmas lights, and decorations, and snow outside your window, while you bask in the warmth of your home; then curl up by the fire or Christmas tree, with a bowl of this and it will complete you!

 I couldn't get the stupid pic. to work!

this is why I never do them! :(

1/2 cup raisins

5 tablespoons sherry (I like orange juice better) 

1/2 cup short grain rice (FYI-the one time I used short grain it did not turn out half as creamy. I usually use long grain.)

3 or 4 strips of lemon peel 

1 cup water 

2 cups milk 

1 cup sugar 

pinch of salt 

1 cinnamon stick about 3 inches (more to decorate, if desired [make sure to use quality cinnamon sticks! If you use cheap ones, you'll get a cheap flavor.]) 

2 egg yolks 

1 tablespoon butter, 

diced toasted sliced almonds 

chilled orange segments (plus grapefruit segments if desired. You may find the more citrus the better: it really sets off the richness of the pudding) 

1) Put raisins and sherry (or orange juice) in a small saucepan. heat gently until warm, then set the pan aside, which will let the raisins swell. 2) Mix the rice, lemon peel and water in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for about 20 minutes. Remove the lemon peel. 3) Add the milk and the cinnamon stick to the pan, then stir until the rice has absorbed the milk. Stir in the sugar and salt. Add the egg yolks and butter. Stir constantly until the butter has melted (and so the yolks don't cook into a glob). 4) Drain the raisins and stir into the rice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Taste it and see; if you feel that the pudding is lacking depth of flavor, go ahead and squeeze some of the lemon that you have in there. Makes ALL the difference! top with the toasted almonds and serve with the orange segments. Place a cinnamon stick in each bowl (optional).