Rice Pudding "Gonzo"

A Taste of Remembrance: Rice Pudding "Gonzo"

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a story. A story of remembrance, of courage, and of a simple yet deeply comforting dessert. It's a recipe I've held onto for years, passed down with whispered stories of bravery and sacrifice. It’s a tribute to the fallen heroes of FDNY Company 18, and especially to Steve “Gonzo” Gonzalez, a name synonymous with unwavering dedication and selflessness. The rice pudding itself, rich and creamy, is a reflection of their spirit: warm, sustaining, and deeply comforting. Each spoonful is a silent nod to their memory.

The first time I made this rice pudding, I was a young woman, just starting to understand the weight of history. I was visiting my aunt, a retired nurse who had served near Ground Zero in the aftermath of 9/11. She shared stories – not of grand heroism, but of quiet acts of kindness and perseverance, of the everyday strength of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Among her stories was this recipe, passed down through generations of her family. She recounted how during the most difficult days, the simple act of sharing a warm, comforting bowl of rice pudding helped people find solace amidst the chaos.

The recipe itself is remarkably uncomplicated. Simple ingredients, carefully combined, create something magical. The slow simmering of milk and rice, the delicate whisper of vanilla, the subtle sweetness – all combine to create a pudding that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. It's a hug in a bowl, a reminder of the basic comforts that keep us going, especially during times of adversity. I’ve made it countless times since, always finding comfort in the rhythmic stirring, the gentle transformation of simple ingredients into a creamy masterpiece.

The act of cooking, for me, is often a form of meditation. The repetitive motions, the careful measuring, the watchful anticipation – it grounds me, centers me. And this particular recipe, tied as it is to such a profound historical moment, has a deeper significance. It’s a ritual of remembrance, a way to honor the lives lost and to connect with the enduring spirit of those who answered the call to duty.

More than just a dessert, this rice pudding is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a symbol of hope and healing in the face of unimaginable tragedy. It's a recipe that's as much about the story behind it as it is about the deliciousness of the final product. So, as you savor each creamy spoonful, remember the brave firefighters of Company 18, and the enduring spirit of those who strive to protect and serve. May this simple pudding serve as a small gesture of gratitude and remembrance for their ultimate sacrifice.

This recipe isn't just about the taste; it's about the memories.

Step-by-step

• Bring milk, rice, sugar, butter, vanilla, and salt to a boil in a 4-quart heavy saucepan over moderately high heat, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently, until rice is very tender, about 1 hour.
• Just before rice mixture finishes cooking, whisk eggs lightly in a bowl. Remove pan from heat and slowly add 1 cup of rice mixture to eggs, whisking constantly. Stir egg mixture into remaining rice mixture in pan, then stir in cream.
• Pour pudding into a 13- by 9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish (3-quart capacity) and sprinkle with cinnamon.
• Chill pudding, covered, at least 3 hours.