Semolina pudding like grandma used to make

Semolina with milk like in grandma's days

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

I invite you to travel back in time to the warm days of childhood, when the aroma of semolina with milk filled grandma's kitchen. This simple yet flavorful dessert will bring you joy and nostalgia in every spoonful. It is a quick dish that can be customized to your liking, perfect for moments when you want to indulge in something sweet and comforting.

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 ml whole milk (feel free to choose full-fat milk for a richer taste)
- 6 tablespoons of semolina (preferably fine semolina for a creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust the amount to your preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (or more if you are a fan of this flavor)
- Zest of one lemon (for an extra freshness)
- Zest of one orange (for a vibrant citrus note)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or a few drops of vanilla essence
- Jam or preserves, to taste (you can choose between raspberry, strawberry, or even plum)
- Honey and nuts (optional, but adds a crunchy texture and delicious flavor)
- Raisins soaked in rum (for a touch of elegance)

A brief history:

Semolina with milk is a dessert with deep roots in culinary tradition, prepared in many cultures in various forms. Easy to make and with readily available ingredients, it was often a popular choice in households of the past, due to the accessibility of semolina and milk. It is a dessert that evokes pleasant memories and continues to be loved by generations.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Good organization will help you prepare the dessert faster and more efficiently.

2. Heat the milk: In a medium saucepan, add the milk, sugar, vanilla essence (or vanilla sugar), and the zest of the lemon and orange. Place on low heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. It is important not to boil the milk, just to warm it gently.

3. Add the semolina: When the milk is warm and the sugar is dissolved, start adding the semolina in a rain-like fashion, continuously stirring with a whisk. This step is essential to avoid lumps.

4. Cook the mixture: Keep stirring constantly, allowing the semolina to simmer on low heat. It won't take long for the mixture to thicken. Ideally, you should leave it on the heat for no more than 5-7 minutes. If you notice it is too thick, you can add a little warm milk to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Adjust the consistency: Everyone's preference is different. If you like your semolina more watery, feel free to add milk, and if you prefer it thicker, add more semolina. Here, there are no strict rules – it all depends on your taste!

6. Serve with love: Once the semolina is ready, pour it into bowls and let it cool slightly. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preferences.

Serving suggestions:

- Sprinkle cinnamon on top for an extra aroma.
- Add jam or preserves for an explosion of flavors.
- For a crunchy version, use roasted nuts and honey: a layer of semolina, a layer of honey and chopped nuts, then repeat.
- Raisins soaked in rum are a delight and provide a pleasant contrast of textures.

Nutritional benefits:

Semolina is a good source of carbohydrates and provides quick energy. Milk brings a significant amount of calcium and protein, essential for a balanced diet. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use lactose-free milk? Absolutely! You can use lactose-free milk or any other type of plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, to make the recipe vegan.

2. What can I use instead of sugar? If you prefer to reduce the amount of sugar, you can use honey, maple syrup, or natural sweeteners like stevia.

3. How can I vary this recipe? You can experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa or melted chocolate for a more decadent dessert. You can also replace the citrus zest with cinnamon or cardamom for an exotic taste.

4. Can it be stored in the fridge? Yes, semolina with milk can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure it is covered to avoid absorbing odors from the fridge.

5. Can I add fresh fruits? Of course! Seasonal fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or peaches can add a touch of freshness and a boost of vitamins.

This is a dessert that can be easily adapted according to your preferences. I encourage you to play with the ingredients and make semolina with milk just the way you like it best. Happy cooking!