Semolina pudding

Semolina pudding with lemon syrup and chocolate - A childhood dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8

This semolina pudding recipe is a true gem from childhood, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments spent in mom's kitchen. It is a fluffy, aromatic, and slightly tangy dessert, perfect for warm days or to conclude a hearty meal. Whether served plain or with a fragrant syrup, each bite will bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients:

*For the pudding:*
- 6 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons of semolina
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Vanilla essence (a few drops)
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Butter for greasing the pan

*For the syrup:*
- 1 liter of milk
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (depending on how sweet you prefer the dessert)
- Juice of one lemon

*For decoration:*
- Chocolate candies or other toppings of your choice

The story behind the recipe:

Semolina pudding has been a beloved dessert for many generations. Easy to prepare, this dessert has become a popular choice due to its accessible ingredients and comforting taste. Every family has its own version, and I chose to personalize it with a touch of chocolate, but you can choose to serve it with jam, seasonal fruits, or other fragrant syrups.

Step by step - How to prepare semolina pudding:

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the egg whites are beaten well to achieve a fluffy texture.

2. Beating the egg whites: Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they become airy foam. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a dense and shiny foam.

3. Incorporating the yolks: Add the yolks one by one, gently mixing with a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Gradually incorporate the semolina and breadcrumbs, mixing carefully. Add the vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and a few drops of vanilla essence. Ensure everything is well homogenized.

5. Preparing the pan: Grease a baking dish or another heat-resistant vessel with butter. This will help in easily releasing the pudding after baking.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 40 minutes. Check if it is ready by doing the toothpick test - if it comes out clean, the pudding is perfectly baked.

7. Preparing the syrup: While the pudding is baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a pot, mix the milk with sugar and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sugar completely dissolves.

8. Finalizing the dessert: Once the pudding is baked, remove it from the oven and, while still warm, gradually pour the milk syrup over it. Allow the pudding to absorb the syrup and then let it cool. It is recommended to refrigerate for at least a few hours, but it is preferable to leave it to cool overnight for it to firm up well.

9. Serving: When you are ready to serve, decorate the pudding with chocolate candies or other preferred toppings. This will add extra flavor and an appealing look to your dessert.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the ingredients: Use fresh eggs and whole milk for a richer taste. You can choose high-quality semolina for a finer texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa to the mixture or dried fruits. Also, replacing lemon syrup with rose syrup or fruit syrup can bring an interesting note.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Why does my pudding come out too dense? Check if you have beaten the egg whites well enough and ensure you have followed the ingredient proportions.
- Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, you can replace the milk with a plant-based option, but the taste and texture will be slightly different.

Nutritional benefits:

This semolina pudding is a good source of protein due to the eggs, and the semolina provides complex carbohydrates. The milk adds calcium and essential vitamins. However, it is advisable to consume this dessert in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Pairings and serving suggestions:

Semolina pudding pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but it can also be a wonderful dessert after a hearty meal. It can be served alongside ice cream or with a chocolate sauce for an extra touch of decadence.

This dessert is not only an invitation to cook but also an opportunity to bring family and friends together for unforgettable moments around the table. So, don’t hesitate! Start preparing this delicious semolina pudding and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!