½ cup (100g) short-grain white rice (like Arborio or sushi rice—not instant or long-grain)
4 cups whole milk (full-fat for best creaminess)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cinnamon stick (or ½ tsp ground cinnamon)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
¼ tsp fine sea salt
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for dusting
Optional: Raisins (½ cup, soaked in warm water), lemon zest, or a splash of rum

🌾 Rice tip: Short-grain rice releases more starch, creating that signature creamy texture. Do not rinse it—the starch is essential!