Coconut milk cheese pudding

Coconut Milk Cheese Pudding: A Sweet Childhood Memory

Welcome to my kitchen, where today I will guide you step by step in preparing a coconut milk cheese pudding. This recipe brings a touch of childhood, filled with sweetness and memories. The pudding is a versatile dessert that can be served warm or cold, and pairs perfectly with various toppings. Let's get started!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Ingredients

- 2 large cups of pasta (small shells or any preferred type)
- 400 g fresh cottage cheese
- 150 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 can of coconut milk (about 400 ml)
- 100 g grated coconut
- 1 unsalted butter cube (for greasing the dish)
- Cherry syrup or jam (for serving)
- Almond flakes (optional, for decoration)

A Brief History

Cheese pudding is a classic dessert that has been prepared in various forms throughout history, often associated with festive moments. The combination of fresh cheese with coconut milk adds an exotic touch and a unique creaminess, transforming a traditional recipe into a modern delight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and let it cook for 10 minutes. It is important for the pasta to be well-cooked, not al dente, to integrate perfectly into the pudding. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Preparing the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, add the fresh cottage cheese and sugar. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth mixture. Add the two beaten eggs and grated coconut, mixing well. Now, dilute the mixture with the coconut milk, stirring continuously to obtain a creamy texture.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese and coconut milk mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture. This step is essential for achieving a uniform and delicious pudding.

Step 4: Baking the Pudding

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with the butter cube, making sure all edges are well covered. Pour the pudding mixture into the dish and level the surface with a spatula. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pudding slightly pulls away from the edges of the dish and turns golden.

Step 5: Serving the Pudding

Once the pudding is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top and a little more grated coconut for a decorative touch. When ready to serve, decorate with almond flakes or cherry syrup/jam for a special taste and presentation.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Pasta: You can experiment with different types of pasta, but small ones like shells are ideal for holding the creamy mixture.
- Cottage Cheese: Make sure to use fresh cottage cheese for a fine texture. You can also use ricotta cheese for a creamier version.
- Coconut Milk: If you don’t like coconut milk, you can substitute it with cow's milk or a plant-based alternative, but the taste will be different.

Variations

- Fruit Additions: You can add pieces of pineapple or mango to the pudding mixture for a tropical taste.
- Spices: A teaspoon of vanilla or a bit of cardamom can add an interesting extra flavor.
- Alternative Toppings: Instead of cherry jam, you can try caramel or chocolate sauce for a decadent version.

Nutritional Benefits

Coconut milk cheese pudding is a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs used. The coconut adds healthy fats, and the pasta provides necessary carbohydrates for energy. It is a dessert that can satisfy sweet cravings without being too heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use soy cheese for a vegan version?
Yes, you can use soy cheese or a vegan cheese substitute, but the texture and taste will vary.

How can I store the pudding?
The pudding stores well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. You can serve it cold or gently reheat it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To turn the dessert into a special experience, serve the cheese pudding with a glass of sweet wine or a fragrant tea. Offer guests a combination of textures and flavors, and childhood memories will surely be rekindled.

So, enjoy every bite of this delicious pudding! It is a sweet treat that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a smile to the faces of loved ones. Enjoy your meal!