Strawberry pudding

Strawberry Pudding - a refined and flavorful dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours (in the fridge)
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Who doesn't love a creamy dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a smooth and delicious pudding? Strawberry pudding is a classic dessert that enjoys popularity due to its delicate texture and fresh taste. It evokes pleasant memories of summer and evenings spent with loved ones.

The history of pudding can be traced back through the centuries, being a popular choice in many cultures due to its versatility. Whether prepared with fresh fruits or flavored with aromatic essences, pudding remains a symbol of culinary refinement. In this recipe, we will explore the steps necessary to create a strawberry pudding, as well as suggestions for personalizing it.

Ingredients

- 300 g fresh strawberries
- 100 g sugar (divided)
- 1 whole egg + 3 egg yolks
- 2 heaping tablespoons of cornstarch
- 500 ml milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt

Preparing the strawberry pudding

1. Preparing the pudding cream
Start by preparing the pudding cream. In a medium bowl, add the whole egg and the egg yolks. Add 50 g of sugar (reserving the rest for the strawberries) and mix the ingredients with an electric mixer on medium speed until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.

2. Incorporating the cornstarch
Gradually add the cornstarch while continuously mixing to avoid lumps. This will help thicken the cream later. Once the cornstarch is fully incorporated, add the lemon zest to give the cream a fresh and aromatic note.

3. Heating the milk
In a saucepan, pour the milk and place it over medium heat. Wait until the milk starts to boil, but be careful not to let it boil over, as this could affect the pudding's texture.

4. Combining the ingredients
When the milk reaches boiling point, slowly pour it over the egg mixture, continuously stirring to prevent the eggs from curdling. It is essential to do this step slowly to achieve a smooth pudding.

5. Thickening the cream
Return the mixture to low heat and constantly stir with a spatula or whisk until the cream thickens. Be careful not to let it boil, as this could lead to lumps forming. Once the cream is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

6. Pouring into molds
Wet the molds with water to facilitate the pudding's release later. Pour the cream into the prepared molds and let them sit at room temperature until completely cooled. Then, place them in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set.

Preparing the strawberry sauce

7. Preparing the strawberries
Wash the strawberries under cold running water and gently dry them with a clean towel. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on your preference. Some of the strawberries will be used to make the sauce, while others will be for decoration.

8. Making the sauce
In a bowl, add the cut strawberries and 50 g of sugar. If you want a fresh sauce, mash the strawberries with a fork, leaving some larger pieces for texture. If you want to prepare the sauce for later, place the strawberries in a small saucepan over medium heat and simmer for 2 minutes until they become slightly soft and release their juice.

Finalizing the dessert

9. Serving the pudding
Once the pudding has completely cooled, take the molds out of the fridge and carefully invert each pudding onto a platter or plate. Pour the strawberry sauce in the center of the pudding, and for a special touch, garnish with a few whole strawberries on top.

10. Serving suggestions
This strawberry pudding can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which will add a delicious contrast of textures. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade pairs perfectly with this dessert.

Useful tips

- Choose fresh strawberries: It is essential to use ripe strawberries, as their flavor will significantly influence the final taste of the dessert. Strawberries can be replaced with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create interesting variations.
- Cornstarch: If you want a quicker option, you can use packaged pudding mix, but the taste and texture will be different. Making it from scratch will give you better control over the ingredients and the final flavor.
- Customization: You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding cream for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or coconut milk, to create a vegan version.

Nutritional benefits

Strawberry pudding is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, thanks to the fresh strawberries. It also contains protein from the eggs and calcium from the milk, making it a nutritious dessert option. However, it's best to enjoy these treats in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted with various fruits. Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches work great!

2. How can I store the pudding?
The pudding can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure it is covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

3. Is it possible to make the pudding without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute, such as applesauce or a mixture of water and flaxseeds, to achieve a vegan version.

4. Can I freeze the pudding?
While it is possible to freeze the pudding, the texture may be affected after thawing. It is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy its optimal taste.

Enjoy this strawberry pudding, a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of joy to every meal! It is perfect for special occasions, parties, or simply as a treat on warm summer days. Savor every spoonful!

 Ingredients: 300g strawberries, 100g sugar, one whole egg + 3 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 500ml milk, 1 lemon (can also be made with pudding powder, it's quicker, depending on personal preference)