Germany's beloved comforting rice pudding: round-grain milk rice slow-cooked in whole milk with vanilla and lemon zest until ultra-creamy, dusted with cinnamon sugar.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring whole milk, split vanilla pod, lemon peel, and pinch of salt to a boil over medium heat.
Stir in the round-grain rice and sugar. Reduce heat to lowest setting immediately.
Cover loosely and simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon so the bottom doesn't catch, until the grains are tender and suspended in a luscious, thick cream.
Remove lemon peel and vanilla pod. Let stand off heat for 5 minutes. Spoon warm Milchreis into bowls and dust generously with cinnamon sugar.