Microwave Apricot and Orange Rice Pudding

Name: Microwave Apricot and Orange Rice Pudding
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 21 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 200 g pudding rice; 600 ml skimmed milk; 140 g ready-to-eat dried apricots, roughly chopped; 4 tbsp reduced-fat fromage frais; 1 tbsp clear honey; 1 unit zest and juice of 1 orange; 1 pinch ground nutmeg; 1 handful toasted sliced almonds

A quick and creamy microwave rice pudding infused with zesty orange and sweet apricots. This lighter version uses skimmed milk and fromage frais for a comforting yet healthy dessert or breakfast.

Servings4 Portions

Prep Time5 Mins

Cook Time16 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

pudding rice
200 g
skimmed milk
600 ml
ready-to-eat dried apricots, roughly chopped
140 g
reduced-fat fromage frais
4 tbsp
clear honey
1 tbsp
zest and juice of 1 orange
1 unit
ground nutmeg
1 pinch
toasted sliced almonds
1 handful

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the pudding rice and skimmed milk. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pierce it a few times to allow steam to escape.

Cook on High for 5 minutes. Remove carefully, stir the mixture, and let it stand for 1 minute.

Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the milk. Stir in the ground nutmeg and let it rest for 2 minutes.

In a separate small microwaveable bowl, mix the honey, chopped apricots, and orange juice. Microwave on High for 1 minute until the apricots have plumped up.

Fold the syrupy apricot mixture, fromage frais, and a pinch of orange zest into the cooked rice. Serve immediately in bowls, topped with toasted almonds, the remaining orange zest, and an extra drizzle of honey if desired.

Chef's Tips

For a richer flavor, you can substitute the skimmed milk with semi-skimmed or whole milk. If fromage frais is unavailable, Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy tang. Ensure you use 'ready-to-eat' dried apricots as they soften much faster in the microwave.