Semolina pudding with cocoa

Semolina pudding with cocoa: A classic and comforting delight

Do you dream of a dessert that brings back childhood memories, full of enticing aromas and creamy textures? Semolina pudding with cocoa is the perfect choice! This simple and quick recipe transforms semolina into a treat that will delight the whole family, especially the little ones. It is a versatile recipe, ideal for moments when you want to bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. So, get ready to discover how to prepare this delicious pudding step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of milk
- 6 tablespoons of semolina
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa
- 10 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla essence (or 1 packet of vanilla sugar)
- 1 teaspoon of margarine or butter
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of baking soda

A brief history of semolina pudding:
Semolina pudding is a dessert that has its origins in culinary traditions worldwide, being popular in various forms and variations. Offering a combination of milk, semolina, and sweet flavors, this dish has proven to be not only nourishing but also comforting, often served at family meals. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and today I will show you how to prepare it in the cocoa variant for an extra burst of flavor.

Step by step: How to prepare semolina pudding with cocoa

1. Boil the milk: In a large pot, pour 1 liter of milk and add 10 tablespoons of sugar along with a pinch of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. It's important to stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

2. Add the semolina: When the milk starts to boil, reduce the heat and add the semolina in a rain-like manner, stirring constantly with a whisk. This technique will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a creamy texture.

3. Cook the mixture: Continue to cook the mixture for a few minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens and becomes homogeneous. When it reaches the desired consistency, turn off the heat.

4. Add flavors and fat: At this point, incorporate the vanilla essence and margarine (or butter) and mix well. This step will add a rich flavor and pleasant aroma to the dish.

5. Cool the mixture: Cover the pot with a lid and let the pudding cool to room temperature. For an even better result, you can let the pudding sit overnight in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld and become more intense.

6. Prepare the yolks: Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a bowl, whisk the yolks with the 3 tablespoons of cocoa until the mixture becomes homogeneous and fluffy.

7. Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form peaks. This step will give the pudding an airy texture, making it even more enjoyable.

8. Combine the ingredients: Add the yolk and cocoa mixture to the semolina mixture, stirring gently. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula, being careful not to lose the air from the egg whites. Add the baking soda as well.

9. Prepare the baking dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mixture into it, leveling it evenly.

10. Bake the pudding: Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the pudding for about 30 minutes. It's important to pay attention to when the pudding is ready: it should be well set, similar to a jelly.

11. Cool and serve: After baking, let the pudding sit covered for 20 minutes to steam a bit. This step will help achieve an even finer texture. Then, you can cut the pudding into portions and serve it warm or cold, with a chocolate glaze or a dollop of whipped cream.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Choose the right semolina: Good quality semolina will make a difference in the pudding's texture. Make sure it is not too fine to avoid a pudding that is too dense.
- Adding flavors: You can experiment with other flavors, such as cinnamon or almond essence, to give the recipe a personal twist.
- Add a burst of flavor: You can add chocolate pieces or candied fruits to the semolina mixture for an even richer taste.
- Serving: The pudding pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce for an added touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can replace cow's milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, but the taste will vary. Make sure to check labels to choose options without added sugars.

2. How can I make the pudding less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. You can replace sugar with a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. What is the shelf life of the pudding?
Semolina pudding with cocoa keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of semolina pudding with cocoa (about 150 g) contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, and cocoa adds beneficial antioxidants. It is a dessert that provides energy, but it's best consumed in moderation due to its sugar content.

Conclusion:
Semolina pudding with cocoa is not just a simple dessert but an experience that combines childhood memories with an unforgettable taste. It is a recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and those of your loved ones, always providing a moment of joy. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the preparation! Bon appétit!