Hence, renditions of specifically Southern rice pudding are a bit more common. And today, both the Portuguese and American interpretations still thrive -- after all, why change a tried formula?

Boil rum and raisins in small saucepan 30 seconds then remove from heat and let stand while making pudding. Bring water with salt to a boil in a 3 to 4 quart heavy saucepan. Stir in rice and ...