Vanilla pudding

Vanilla Pudding with Fruits - a classic and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6

In a world full of sophisticated and complicated desserts, vanilla pudding remains a symbol of comfort and culinary nostalgia. This simple yet refined recipe, with an intense vanilla flavor, will remind you of childhood and will win you over every time. It is a perfect choice for a family meal or a sweet treat after a long day.

Ingredients:
- 500 ml whole milk (or plant-based milk if you prefer)
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla extract)
- 3 fresh egg yolks
- 120 g sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 75 g flour (wheat flour or you can use gluten-free flour)
- A pinch of salt

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Use whole milk for a creamy pudding, and the vanilla bean will add a unique aroma. If you don't have a vanilla bean, vanilla extract will work well too.

2. Beating the egg yolks: In a large bowl, add the 3 egg yolks and sugar. Use a whisk or mixer to beat them together until you achieve a homogeneous, creamy, and fluffy mixture. This will ensure a fine texture for your pudding.

3. Adding the flour: Gradually incorporate the flour and a pinch of salt into the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. It's important to mix well to achieve an even texture.

4. Heating the milk: In a saucepan, pour 250 ml of the 500 ml of milk and add the vanilla bean, split lengthwise. Place the saucepan over medium heat and heat the milk. When it starts to boil, remove the vanilla bean.

5. Combining the ingredients: Remove the saucepan from the heat and, using a ladle, gradually pour the egg yolk and flour mixture into the milk, stirring constantly. This is a crucial step to avoid lumps. When everything is well incorporated, place the saucepan back over medium heat.

6. Cooking the pudding: Continue to stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. When the pudding reaches the desired consistency, it is ready.

7. Cooling and serving: Pour the prepared pudding into suitable molds (you can use dessert cups or small bowls) and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours. Vanilla pudding can be served plain or with fresh fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or peaches, for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips:
- Recipe variations: You can add a splash of rum or orange liqueur for an extra flavor boost. Also, replace some of the flour with cocoa to make a chocolate pudding.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of this pudding has about 180-220 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Milk is a good source of calcium and protein, while vanilla has antioxidant properties.
- Perfect pairing: This pudding pairs wonderfully with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce. Give it an elegant look by decorating with fresh mint leaves or chocolate shavings.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I avoid lumps? Make sure to stir constantly and incorporate the ingredients gradually. A whisk is the best tool to achieve a smooth texture.
- Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, almond or coconut milk can be an excellent alternative, but it may slightly change the final taste.

Cook this vanilla pudding with love and enjoy every spoonful! It is a dessert that can bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones and will surely become a favorite recipe in your kitchen.