Childhood on a Plate: Colarezi

Colărezi – Childhood on a Plate

Do you remember the magical moments of childhood when the aroma of warm desserts filled the house and invited you to sit at the table? Today, I invite you to return to those times with a simple yet memory-filled recipe: colărezi. This creamy dessert, made from milk and bits of dough, is a true delight for the taste buds and a perfect way to reconnect with those happy days.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 3/4 cup of flour (choose a high-quality flour for a finer dough)
- 10 tablespoons of water (approximately, adjustable according to desired consistency)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- A small pinch of salt (you can use sea salt for a subtle flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract (natural essence is recommended for an authentic taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Choose fresh, high-quality milk, as this will significantly influence the dessert's flavor. The flour should be fine, and the salt, preferably sea salt, to add a note of complexity.

2. Preparing the milk: In a large saucepan, add the milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently to dissolve the sugar. Be careful not to let the milk boil too quickly, as it may stick to the bottom of the pan.

3. Preparing the dough: In a bowl, place the flour and gradually add the water. Use your hands to mix and form a homogeneous dough. Rub the dough between your fingers to create small, irregular pieces that will give the dessert a rustic appearance. If you prefer larger pieces, you can add less water.

4. Cooking the colărezi: Once the milk starts to boil, carefully add the dough pieces to the saucepan. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Let them boil for about 10 minutes. You will notice how the dough puffs up and becomes fluffy, forming those delicious textures.

5. Finishing the dessert: After the colărezi are ready, add the vanilla extract and stir again. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dessert cool slightly. It is delicious served warm, but you can also refrigerate it for a refreshing taste.

Serving suggestions:
Colărezi can be served plain or with a drizzle of maple syrup, honey, or fruit jam. You can also add some fresh seasonal fruits for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This dessert is rich in calcium due to the milk, which is essential for bone health. The flour provides complex carbohydrates, and the sugar adds an energy boost. However, it is best to consume colărezi in moderation, as they also contain sugar.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, you can substitute cow's milk with almond or coconut milk, but the taste will vary.
- How can I make the colărezi less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like stevia or agave syrup.
- Can I add other flavors? Experiment with cinnamon or lemon zest for an even more interesting taste.

Possible variations:
- Cocoa colărezi: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the dough to create a more chocolatey version.
- Fruit colărezi: You can add pieces of banana or peaches to the milk to enrich the dessert's flavor.
- Nut colărezi: Sprinkle roasted nuts for an extra crunch.

Colărezi are not just a dessert, but a true journey into the past, a recipe that will make you feel like a child again. Enjoy this simple and warm dish, savoring every spoonful and memory!