WHEN it comes to flavours that remind us of our childhood, a bowl of rice pudding comes top of the list.
But even if you haven’t eaten it since you were a kid, there’s no reason not to tuck into this nostalgic dessert.
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Whether it’s to turn back the clock or if you just fancy something warm and sweet this winter, Laura Stott tasted a selection of tinned offerings, and gives her verdict and marks out of five on which rice was most nice.
Rice Pudding Sainsbury’s, 400g, 90p – 4/5
THICK, creamy and very tasty, I really enjoyed this very nice rice from Sainsbury’s – although it’s a bit pricier than some other own-brand cans.
It took a bit longer to warm through fully in a pan on the hob, but the result is a nicely balanced, comforting bowl of nostalgic retro dessert.
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A rich flavour and comforting thickness and it wasn’t overly sweet either, which I enjoyed.
Creamed Rice Pudding Morrisons 400g, 89p – 3/5
THE supermarket’s own-brand is made with skimmed and some whole milk and offers a lighter taste.
Not intensely creamy, but still substantial enough to resemble a proper old-fashioned dessert.
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It’s extremely moreish, best enjoyed cold straight from the tin, though it also pairs well with a dollop of fruity jam.
A satisfying option for less than a pound.
Classic Creamed Rice Pudding asda.com, 400g, 79p – 2/5
ASDA’S rice pudding lists skimmed milk as its primary ingredient, followed by whole milk.
As a result, the flavour is a bit lacklustre and overly sweet for my taste.
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The smell was acceptable but not exciting, while the texture reminded me of wallpaper paste when warmed up.
It was more reminiscent of school lunches than a comforting treat.
Belbake Rice Pudding, Lidl (in stores) 400g, 79p – 3/5
WELL-PRICED, milky rice pudding – ideal for winter pudding cravings or a quick family dessert.
Made with whole milk, it offers a creamy flavour and thick texture with plenty of plump rice grains.
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It has a risotto-like texture when warmed and is sturdy when eaten cold.
Extremely filling, so watch your portion size or be a little cautious with sweet additions.
Ambrosia Rice Pudding 400g, £1.60 – 2/5
THE bright blue tin evokes nostalgia for those who enjoyed creamy rice pudding in the past.
Made in Devon with fresh full cream milk, Ambrosia promises a thick texture, but the contents seem runny with a low rice-to-milk ratio.
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Less decadent than remembered, it’s better eaten cold, as heating it makes it more watery.
Not the best grains and pricey too.
Creamy Rice Pudding, M&S (in stores or ocado.com) 400g, £1.60 – 4/5
THIS rice pudding is the most indulgent.
While it is similar in price to Ambrosia, it stands out by containing real cream, which enhances its flavour.
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Made with whole milk, cream, rice and sugar, it tastes like it was home-made and is a true childhood treat.
Thick and luscious, it’s so rich it needs no garnish, except a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
The Dessert Menu Rice Pudding Aldi, 400g, 79p – 5/5
MADE with whole and skimmed milk, this is super creamy, thick and satisfying.
It has a wholesome aroma that fills the kitchen when heated.
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Packed with plenty of grains, it offers a good bite. Indulgent, especially with added jam, nutmeg, or chocolate gratings.
It may develop a slight skin when warmed, but tasty and a bargain, so well worth stock-ing up on.
Stockwell and Co Rice Pudding Tesco, 400g, 25p – 4/5
THIS offers incredible value and despite its low price, it contains the same amount of rice as pricier brands and is made with skimmed milk.
Once warmed it smells amazing, has a lovely creamy texture and tastes delicious.
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You can add some fresh, frozen, or dried fruit, or a spoonful of jam.
It’s also nice cold.
Nostalgic and a budget-friendly option.