Rice pudding with caramelized pears

Semolina pudding with caramelized pears - a delicate and savory dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert, semolina pudding with caramelized pears is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the creamy texture of semolina with the natural sweetness of pears, offering you a moment of indulgence that will surely impress family and friends. The origins of this recipe are steeped in history, being a dish cherished by generations due to its simplicity and versatility.

Necessary ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- 3 cups of milk
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 7 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of butter
- 2 tablespoons of pear jam
- 1 pear
- a few slices of lemon for decoration

Necessary utensils
- A small pot
- A spatula
- A flower-shaped mold (or a pudding mold)
- A flat plate for serving

Step by step: Preparing the semolina pudding

1. Boiling the semolina: In a pot, add the 3 cups of milk and bring it to a boil over medium heat. When the milk starts to boil, add the 2 tablespoons of semolina, 7 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and the vanilla sugar. Stir constantly with a spatula to avoid lumps. Continue boiling for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and thickens.

2. Cooling the mixture: Once the semolina is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly for about 10 minutes. This step is important to avoid the pudding spilling when transferring it to the mold.

3. Shaping the pudding: Choose a flower-shaped mold, which you can lightly grease with a bit of butter to facilitate removing the pudding after cooling. Carefully pour the semolina mixture into the mold, flattening it slightly with the spatula to give it an even shape. Let the pudding cool completely for 20-30 minutes to set.

4. Caramelizing the pears: In a small pan, add the 4 tablespoons of sugar and let it melt over medium heat. When the sugar turns golden, add a small piece of butter and stir gently. Peel and slice the pear thinly, then add the slices to the pan. Let them caramelize for 3-4 minutes, turning them carefully to coat evenly with caramel.

5. Assembling the dessert: Once the pudding has set, carefully invert it onto a flat plate. Add the pear jam in the center of the pudding and decorate with the caramelized pears. You can add a few slices of lemon for a touch of freshness and a color contrast.

6. Serving: The semolina pudding with caramelized pears is now ready to be enjoyed! It can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It is a dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

Practical tips
- Choosing ingredients: Use whole milk for a creamier pudding. You can substitute granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you want to reduce refined sugar.
- Variations of the recipe: You can experiment with different fruits like apples or peaches instead of pears. Additionally, adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the semolina mixture can bring an extra delicious flavor.
- Storing the dessert: The pudding keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, so you can prepare it in advance to have on hand.

Nutritional information
This semolina pudding is a good source of carbohydrates, thanks to the semolina and milk. Pears add fiber and essential vitamins, such as vitamin C. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation, having about 250 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole grain semolina? Yes, you can use whole grain semolina for a healthier version, but the cooking time may be longer.
2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using plant-based milk and replacing the butter with a vegetable oil or margarine.
3. How can I make the pudding less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners to taste.

Enjoy this easy and flavorful semolina pudding with caramelized pears, perfect for any occasion! Bon appétit!