Jamie Oliver Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s rice pudding with strawberry jam. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, the kind where the sky feels heavy and the kitchen smells like comfort. I was looking for something simple, cozy, and a little nostalgic. When that first spoonful touched my lips, it was like a hug from the inside. Creamy, sweet, with just a burst of bright strawberry jam that lifted the whole dish. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t need fancy ingredients or hours of preparation – just good old-fashioned love and care.

Rice pudding might sound old-fashioned, but Jamie’s version feels fresh and fun. It’s perfect whether you want a quick sweet treat or a dessert to impress your friends without the fuss. Now, I’m excited to walk you through everything you need to know to make this delightful dish your own.

Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam Recipe

This isn’t your grandma’s rice pudding – though it could easily make her proud. Jamie Oliver takes the classic creamy pudding and adds a simple twist: strawberry jam stirred right in, giving each bite a pop of fruity sweetness that’s unforgettable. The texture is silky and soft, and the warmth of the pudding paired with the jam creates a perfect balance.

Imagine spooning this out straight from the pot, with the jam melting slightly on top. It’s indulgent but not overwhelming. Sweet but not cloying. And most importantly, it feels homemade in every sense.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started. No surprises or fancy imports here – just everyday ingredients you can find at your local market:

• Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice) – it’s all about that creamy, starchy texture
• Whole milk – adds richness and depth
• Double cream – for that extra indulgent, velvety finish
• Caster sugar – to sweeten things up without graininess
• Vanilla pod or vanilla extract – the secret behind that warm, comforting aroma
• Strawberry jam – the star of the show, preferably homemade or a good-quality store brand
• Lemon zest – optional, but adds a fresh twist that cuts through the creaminess
• Butter – just a small knob to finish for extra silkiness

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam

Let me tell you – this recipe is like a gentle hug in the kitchen. Here’s the step-by-step that I’ve perfected through many trials:

1. Start by rinsing your rice to remove excess starch. It helps prevent the pudding from turning into a sticky mess.
2. Pour your milk and cream into a deep saucepan. Split your vanilla pod, scrape out the seeds, and toss both seeds and pod in. Bring to a gentle simmer – don’t rush this!
3. Add the rice and sugar, then stir gently to combine. The key here is patience: cook on a low heat, stirring regularly so the rice absorbs the liquid slowly. This slow cooking creates that luscious creamy texture.
4. After about 25-30 minutes, the rice should be soft and the mixture thickened to pudding consistency. Remove the vanilla pod.
5. Stir in your strawberry jam gently, allowing it to melt slightly but not disappear completely. You want those bursts of jammy goodness in every spoonful.
6. Finish with a knob of butter and, if you like, a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.
7. Serve warm, or let it cool to room temperature if you prefer. Either way, it’s irresistible.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out a bit on why this recipe works so beautifully:

• Arborio rice is your best friend here. Its high starch content is what creates that creamy, velvety texture without needing loads of cream or thickeners. The starch swells and releases slowly during cooking, binding the pudding together naturally.
• Milk and cream create a rich base, but whole milk is important for flavor depth. The cream adds silkiness and keeps it indulgent without being heavy.
• Vanilla is more than just a flavor – it tricks your brain into associating warmth and comfort, making every bite feel cozy.
• Strawberry jam contains natural pectin and sugar, which helps thicken the mixture slightly and adds a sweet, fruity acidity that contrasts the richness. This balance keeps the pudding from feeling too heavy or cloying.
• Lemon zest adds essential oils that brighten the flavor and cut through the fat, making the pudding taste fresher and more complex.

Expert Tips

I’ve learned a few tricks that make this recipe sing:

• Always use a heavy-bottomed saucepan. It prevents scorching and ensures even heat distribution.
• Stir frequently but gently. You want to coax the starch out without smashing the grains.
• Use a high-quality vanilla pod if you can. It’s worth the small splurge.
• Don’t skimp on the jam – the fruity bursts are what make this pudding unforgettable.
• If the pudding gets too thick, stir in a splash of milk before serving to loosen it up.
• Let the pudding rest for 10 minutes after cooking. It firms up slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch it up? Here are some fun ways to make this pudding your own:

• Swap strawberry jam for raspberry or blackberry jam for a tangier twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cooking milk for warm spice notes.
• Mix in toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top for texture contrast.
• Try swapping vanilla for a cardamom pod if you want a more exotic flavor.
• Make it vegan by using coconut milk and vegan cream substitutes – though texture will be a bit different.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s rice pudding with strawberry jam is more than just a dessert. It’s a little moment of joy, a reminder of simple pleasures, and proof that the best dishes don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making it on a lazy afternoon or serving it up at a dinner party, it delivers comfort and flavor in equal measure.

FAQs

How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding With Strawberry Jam?

Start by cooking rice with milk and sugar. Then, stir in vanilla and cook until creamy. Once it’s ready, add a spoonful of strawberry jam on top!

Can I Use Other Types Of Jam In This Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use any fruit jam you like. Raspberry or blueberry would be great alternatives to strawberry.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding Easy To Make?

Absolutely! It’s a simple recipe with basic ingredients, and it doesn’t take too long to prepare.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-free?

Yes! You can swap the milk for almond, coconut, or oat milk to make it dairy-free.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding Need To Cook?

It takes around 30-40 minutes to cook the rice and milk mixture until it thickens and becomes creamy.

Can I Prepare This Rice Pudding In Advance?

Yes! You can make it the day before. Just store it in the fridge and add the jam right before serving.

Can I Use Instant Rice For This Recipe?

It’s better to use traditional long-grain rice for the best texture. Instant rice may not work as well.

What’s The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Rice Pudding?

Serve it warm or chilled with a generous dollop of strawberry jam on top for that sweet, fruity flavor!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently when you want to eat it again.

Can I Add Other Toppings To This Rice Pudding?

Definitely! You can add fresh fruit, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.