For 4 servings you will need:

1/2 c. uncooked rice
1/4 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
1 qt. milk
Grated lemon rind for garnish

Combine rice, sugar and nutmeg. Stir in vanilla and milk. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Uncover and bake 30 minutes longer, allowing a skin to form. Cool and serve warm or cold, sprinkle with lemon rind for garnish.

Raisin Rice Pudding: Stir in 1/3 cup raisins 30 minutes before pudding is done.

Caramel Rice Pudding: Substitute 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed, for the white sugar and cinnamon for the nutmeg.

Brown Rice Pudding: Substitute brown rice for the white rice and cardamom for the nutmeg.

Tips: The milk can be scalded first to speed the cooking time.

Desserts can supply valuable nutrition and still be delicious. Creamy rice pudding, which costs pennies to make, is a good example. The rice and milk provide protein, minerals and vitamins.

Preparation time: 5 minutes. Oven temperature: 350 degrees. Baking time: 2 1/2 hours.