Top Health Benefits of Rice Pudding (Ferni) You Need to Know

Ferni, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, offers a rich blend of nutrients that can contribute to a balanced diet, especially when consumed in moderation. The primary ingredient, milk, is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, essential for maintaining strong bones and overall health. Additionally, milk provides high-quality protein, supporting muscle repair and growth. The use of rice flour or cornstarch in Ferni provides a good source of carbohydrates, which supply energy for the body. Rosewater, an essential flavoring ingredient, not only enhances the fragrance and taste but also offers potential anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits. By adding a variety of fruits for topping, such as fresh peaches or berries, you can increase the fiber content of the dish, aiding digestion and contributing to overall well-being. Additionally, by using less sugar and incorporating natural sweeteners, Ferni can be made suitable for those looking to manage their calorie intake. When paired with healthy fats like a sprinkle of nuts, Ferni can offer a satisfying dessert that provides both taste and essential nutrients.

Ingredients :

Cow Milk : 4 Cup

Rice Flour : 4 Tablespoon

Sugar : 6 Tablespoon

Rosewater : 2 Tablespoon

Vanilla : 1/2 Teaspoon

Dairy Butter : 1 Tablespoon

Fresh or canned / Peach : to taste

powder / pistachio : 1 Tablespoon

The creamy and fragrant delight of homemade Ferni

Recipe :

For 4 people

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a pot, add rice flour or cornstarch.
Slowly pour in the cold milk, stirring constantly to dissolve the flour and avoid lumps.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Cook

Add the sugar and place the pot on medium heat.
Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Add Rose Water and Flavorings

Once the mixture thickens, add rose water and optional vanilla or cardamom.
If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of butter.

Step 4: Final Cooking

Continue cooking on low heat for 10 to 15 more minutes until the "ferni" reaches the desired thickness.

Step 5: Serve the Ferni

Pour the "ferni" into bowls and let it cool down a bit.
Top with fresh peach slices or any fruit of your choice and a sprinkle of cinnamon or pistachio powder for decoration.

Enjoy your delicious homemade "Ferni"!

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Rice Pudding (Ferni)

When preparing Ferni, it's essential to be cautious with the consistency and smoothness of the mixture. Start by gradually adding cold milk to the rice flour or cornstarch to prevent lumps from forming. Stir constantly to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed. As the mixture heats up, keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the pot or burning. The cooking process should be done over medium heat, allowing the mixture to thicken gradually. Patience is key here—rushing the cooking process may result in a less smooth texture. Additionally, when adding flavorings like rosewater or vanilla, it’s important to incorporate them at the right stage—typically after the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. If you opt to include butter for richness, do so in moderation, as it adds extra calories. Finally, always allow the Ferni to cool before serving to let the flavors set and achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Nutritional Information and Diet Compatibility of Rice Pudding (Ferni)

Ferni is a versatile dessert that can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary preferences, but there are a few considerations when it comes to specific diets. For those following a Vegan diet, it's crucial to substitute the milk with plant-based alternatives, such as almond or coconut milk, to maintain the dairy-free nature of the dish. Additionally, Vegetarians can enjoy Ferni as it’s inherently free of meat and animal-derived products (other than milk). However, for those on a Ketogenic diet, this dessert might not be the best choice due to the carbohydrate content from the rice flour or cornstarch and sugar, which could disrupt ketosis. Similarly, Paleo followers might find Ferni incompatible due to the processed ingredients like cornstarch and refined sugar. For individuals on a Gluten-Free diet, Ferni is a suitable option as it doesn’t contain gluten, especially if you use rice flour or cornstarch as the thickening agent. If you're looking to maintain a Low Calorie diet, it’s important to reduce the sugar content and opt for natural sweeteners. Ferni can also be made suitable for High Protein diets by adding protein-rich toppings such as nuts or seeds. While Ferni may not align perfectly with DASH or Fasting diets due to its sugar and calorie content, modifications can be made to fit within those guidelines, such as reducing sugar and avoiding high-fat additions.