Broccoli pudding with cheeses

Broccoli Cheese Pudding - A Nutritious and Flavorful Delicacy

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

Who would have thought that broccoli, a vegetable often overlooked, could become the star of a delicious meal? In this broccoli cheese pudding recipe, we will transform this healthy vegetable into a delicacy that will win the hearts of everyone, even the most reluctant. This recipe is inspired by traditional pudding recipes, which often include cauliflower, but we've discovered that broccoli brings a unique texture and flavor.

A Bit of History

Pudding is a dish that has traversed centuries, ingeniously combining simple ingredients into a hearty meal. It has been made in various forms around the world, evolving over time based on available ingredients. Nowadays, puddings can be sweet or savory, and we will explore the savory version, packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

- 1 small bunch of broccoli (approximately 250 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 generous tablespoons of heavy cream
- 100 g cow cheese (or feta cheese, if you prefer)
- 50 g cheese (for a more intense flavor, opt for smoked cheese)
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Salt (in water)
- Pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Broccoli: Start by breaking the broccoli into small florets. Make sure they are uniform for even cooking. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Blanching: Boil water in a large pot and add a teaspoon of salt. When the water boils, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 3-4 minutes. It's essential not to leave them too long, as we want them to remain crunchy. Once blanched, drain them well and let them cool in a colander.

3. Preparing the Cheeses: Grate the cow cheese on a coarse grater and the cheese on a fine one. Combining the two types of cheese will give the pudding a rich flavor and creamy texture.

4. Egg and Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the cream and add a little pepper. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. Using heavy cream is essential for achieving a well-bound and tasty pudding.

5. Assembling the Pudding: Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Place 3/4 of the grated cow cheese at the bottom of the dish. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the cheese, then add the remaining cheese on top. Arrange the broccoli florets evenly across the surface and finally sprinkle the grated cheese on top.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the pudding bake for about 30 minutes or until it turns golden and slightly browned. It's important to monitor the pudding to avoid burning.

7. Serving: Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can sprinkle a little more cheese on top for an attractive presentation. It is served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a vegetable side dish.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Broccoli: Buy fresh broccoli with green, firm florets. Avoid those with yellow spots or wilted leaves.
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, to give the pudding a personal touch.
- Side Dishes: Broccoli pudding pairs perfectly with a tomato and onion salad or an avocado salsa.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can the pudding be frozen? Yes, broccoli pudding can be frozen after it has completely cooled. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. When you want to serve it, let it thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven.

- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can replace broccoli with cauliflower, spinach, or even zucchini.

- How many calories does a serving of pudding have? A serving of broccoli cheese pudding has approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This is a healthy choice, rich in proteins and essential nutrients.

Conclusion

Broccoli cheese pudding is not only a simple and quick recipe but also an excellent way to incorporate vegetables into your daily diet. With a divine taste and creamy texture, this dish is perfect for quick lunches or dinners. So, let’s enjoy a healthy dish, full of flavors, that will bring smiles to the faces of our loved ones!