This is the most comforting rice pudding ever. Chamomile has been used for years as a natural relaxant and sedative, and along with the rich coconut rice this is the perfect food to help you drift off into a restful sleep. The process of making this pudding is also very therapeutic; be mindful as you stir the rice to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. It’s a meditation in itself!
SERVES 4 | Prep time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes
½ cup jasmine rice, rinsed well and drained
1 (13.5 oz/400 ml) can coconut milk
1 chamomile tea bag brewed in ¼ cup plus 3 tbsp hot water
sea salt
a handful of raisins
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp fresh chamomile flowers to garnish ( optional )
Put the rice in a medium saucepan and pour in just enough water to cover it. Place the pan over medium heat and once it has started to boil, turn the heat down to medium-low and let it cook gently for 10 minutes. Take care not to let the water evaporate completely—keep an eye on the pan and top it up if necessary. Drain the rice and return it to the pan.
Add the coconut milk, chamomile tea, and a pinch of salt and cook on medium-low heat for 25 minutes, stirring every few minutes to make sure the rice doesn’t stick.
Add the raisins and maple syrup and turn the heat to low. Cook for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until creamy. Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top and garnish with the chamomile flowers, if using.