Short-grain rice is key to this recipe. The starch that an arborio or a sushi rice lets out as it cooks thickens the milk, giving it a pleasing richness without adding any fat.
Bring the rice milk or almond milk up to a simmer with the cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise. Stir in the rice and cook it, covered and at a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
Stir in the honey and remove the star anise. Ladle the rice pudding into serving dishes and chill until ready to serve. The pudding will be