Original Tiramisu recipe by Jamie Oliver

Tiramisu - a masterpiece of desserts that combines creamy delight with the enticing aroma of coffee and chocolate. This classic Italian dessert has become a favorite worldwide due to its fine texture and refined taste. Over time, tiramisu has evolved and been reinterpreted, but the original recipe, as it was made in Venice by an Italian pastry chef and popularized by Jamie Oliver, remains a symbol of culinary art. Let's discover together how to prepare this refined dessert and enjoy every bite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 3-4 hours
Total: 3-4 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 10 ladyfingers (preferably savoiardi, as they are lighter and absorb liquid better)
- 100 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 50 g butter
- ½ cup strong coffee (freshly brewed and cooled)
- 250 g mascarpone (make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 4 eggs (separated into yolks and whites, preferably fresh)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 3 glasses of brandy (or optionally, marsala or amaretto for a different flavor)
- Very finely ground coffee (for sprinkling on top)

Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the coffee

Start by brewing ½ cup of strong coffee. Use a quality coffee that you enjoy, as its aroma will influence the dessert. Let the coffee cool completely to avoid soaking the ladyfingers too much.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate

In a small bowl, add 100 g of dark chocolate and 50 g of butter. You can melt them in a double boiler or in the microwave. If using the microwave, make sure to do it on low power, stirring every 30 seconds to avoid burning the chocolate. Once the chocolate and butter are melted and combined, let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the mascarpone mixture

In a large bowl, add the yolks from the 4 eggs and the sugar. Use a mixer to beat them until they become a creamy and light-colored mixture. This process will take about 5 minutes.

Add the mascarpone to the egg mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Whip the egg whites

In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is essential to give the dessert an airy texture. Once the egg whites are well beaten, carefully fold them into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, making gentle up-and-down motions.

Step 5: Assemble the tiramisu

Arrange the ladyfingers in a bowl or dish, pouring the cooled coffee over them. Let them absorb the coffee for a few minutes, but do not leave them too long, or they will become overly soggy.

Once the ladyfingers are ready, pour the mascarpone mixture over them, then evenly spread the melted chocolate on top.

Step 6: Finishing touches

Sprinkle finely ground coffee on top for an aromatic accent and an attractive appearance. Cover with plastic wrap and let the tiramisu chill in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours or ideally overnight.

Practical Tips

- Varieties of ladyfingers: If you can't find savoiardi ladyfingers, you can use digestive biscuits, but the texture and taste will be different.
- Brandy or other drinks: You can experiment with different types of alcoholic beverages. Marsala wine or amaretto can add an interesting note.
- Quality chocolate: Choose good quality chocolate, as it will make a difference in flavor.
- Storing tiramisu: Tiramisu keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it gets even better as the flavors meld.

Perfect Pairings

This tiramisu pairs wonderfully with freshly brewed espresso or sweet wine. I recommend serving it alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

Although tiramisu is an indulgent dessert, in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. Mascarpone is a good source of calcium, and coffee contains antioxidants. Of course, it's important not to overdo the portions, as this dessert is rich in calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make tiramisu without alcohol?
Of course! You can omit the brandy or use orange juice or coffee syrup to add flavor.

2. Why is it important to chill tiramisu?
Chilling helps stabilize the dessert and develop the flavors. The longer it sits, the tastier it becomes.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Although mascarpone is the traditional ingredient, you can experiment with cottage cheese or ricotta, but the texture will be different.

This tiramisu recipe, inspired by Italian traditions, will bring a touch of joy to every meal. It can be enjoyed on a special occasion or simply to indulge your taste buds. Try it and discover why tiramisu is such a beloved dessert!