Mihaela's pudding with cottage cheese and noodles

Mihaela's Pudding with Cottage Cheese and Noodles

Dear cooking enthusiasts, today I invite you to explore a delicious and comforting recipe with me: Mihaela's Pudding with Cottage Cheese and Noodles. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for those days when you crave a homemade dish, full of warmth and beautiful memories. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 55 minutes (15 minutes preparation + 40 minutes baking)
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g noodles (choose your preferred type, homemade noodles are also fine)
- 300 g cottage cheese (for a richer taste, you can use fresh cottage cheese)
- 3 eggs (fresh, quality eggs for better taste)
- Sugar to taste (between 50-100 g, depending on preferences)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- A splash of milk (about 50 ml)
- A tablespoon of salt (to flavor the noodles)
- Butter for greasing the dish (to prevent sticking)

Step by step:

1. Boiling the noodles:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add a teaspoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 7-10 minutes, until al dente. After boiling, drain well and set aside.

2. Preparing the mixture:
In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese. Use a fork to lightly mash it, ensuring there are no large chunks. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sugar, vanilla sugar (if using), and milk. Mix everything well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Combining the ingredients:
Incorporate the noodles into the cheese mixture. Make sure the noodles are evenly coated with this mixture. This step is essential for each bite to be full of flavor.

4. Preparing the dish:
Take a baking dish (preferably ceramic or glass) and generously grease it with butter. This will prevent the pudding from sticking and will provide a delicious crust.

5. Baking:
Pour the mixture into the dish and level the surface with a spatula. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and place the pudding in the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes, until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch.

6. Serving:
Once ready, let the pudding cool for a few minutes before cutting it. You can serve it warm or cold, plain or with a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or even with a fruit sauce.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a fluffier pudding, you can add a fourth egg.
- Experiment with flavors! You can add grated lemon or orange zest for a fresh taste.
- If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use ricotta or a mix of cottage cheese with mascarpone for a creamier texture.
- This pudding pairs wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of fruit tea.

Nutritional benefits:
Mihaela's Pudding with Cottage Cheese and Noodles is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the cheese and eggs. The noodles provide carbohydrates, offering the necessary energy for an active day. Additionally, cottage cheese is rich in calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of cheese, but make sure to choose a creamier cheese to maintain the desired texture.

2. Can I make the pudding in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pudding a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven before serving.

3. How can I substitute sugar?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount to taste.

I hope this recipe brings you joy and warmth to your soul! Cooking is an art and a form of expression, and every recipe has its story. So let’s enjoy every step and share the beautiful moments spent in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!