Semolina pudding, cheese, and caramel

Semolina pudding with cheese and caramel: a simple and refined delicacy

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

This semolina pudding recipe with cheese and caramel represents a perfect combination of the pudding's fine texture and the sweetness of caramel, quickly becoming a favorite among desserts. The origins of semolina pudding are lost in time, but it is a beloved dessert in many cultures, with various variations. Today, we will explore a simple and delicious way to prepare this dessert.

Ingredients

- 500 ml milk
- 150 g fine semolina for pudding
- 4 tablespoons sugar + 200 g for caramel
- 50 g butter
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sweet cow cheese
- Lemon zest (from a medium lemon)
- Vanilla (one pod or 1 teaspoon extract)

Necessary utensils

- Pot for boiling milk
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Baking dish and ramekins (or other small portioning dishes)
- Baking tray for water bath
- Mixer or whisk for beating egg whites

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the caramel

1. Start by melting 50 g of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add 200 g of sugar and stir constantly with a wooden spatula.
2. Wait for the sugar to melt and turn a golden brown color. Be careful not to leave it too long, as it can burn quickly.
3. Once the caramel is ready, carefully pour it into the baking dish and ramekins. Make sure it evenly covers the bottom of the dishes.

Step 2: Preparing the pudding mixture

1. In a pot, add 500 ml of milk and 4 tablespoons of sugar. Bring the milk to a boil over medium heat.
2. Meanwhile, separate the two eggs, keeping the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
3. In the bowl with the yolks, add the sweet cow cheese, 2 tablespoons of sugar, grated lemon zest, and vanilla. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Step 3: Cooking the semolina

1. When the milk starts to boil, sprinkle in the semolina while constantly stirring with a whisk. This step is essential to avoid lumps.
2. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the semolina thickens. Once thickened, remove the pot from the heat.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

1. Add the cheese mixture to the semolina mixture and mix well.
2. Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the pudding mixture. This step will help achieve an airy texture.

Step 5: Baking

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared dishes with caramel, filling them about 3/4 full.
2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dishes in a deep tray and fill the tray with hot water, creating a water bath.
3. Bake the pudding for about 30 minutes or until it becomes firm and lightly browned.

Step 6: Serving

1. Once the pudding is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, carefully invert the dishes onto a platter.
2. The caramel will flow out, creating a delicious sauce on top. You can garnish with a bit of whipped cream or fresh fruit for a contrast of textures.

Useful tips

- Caramel stability: If the caramel has hardened, you can gently reheat it over low heat to return it to a liquid consistency.
- Cheese: Make sure to use fresh sweet cheese for optimal taste. You can also experiment with goat cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Vegan option: Replace the milk with almond or coconut milk and the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Nutritional benefits

This pudding is not only delicious but also nutritious. Milk provides calcium and protein, while sweet cheese adds essential nutrients. Semolina is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of sugar? Yes, you can use brown sugar or a natural sweetener alternative, but the result will be slightly different.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Absolutely! The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure it is well covered.
- Can I add other flavors? Sure! You can experiment with cinnamon or almond essence to diversify the taste.

Delicious combinations

This semolina pudding with cheese and caramel pairs perfectly with aromatic coffee or fruit tea. Additionally, a slice of chocolate cake or a fruit tart could perfectly complement the meal.

Personal note

This recipe reminds me of moments spent with family, when we gathered around the table to enjoy desserts made with love. The taste of semolina pudding with cheese and caramel taught me that simple moments can bring the greatest joys.

I hope this recipe inspires you to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen. Savor every bite and enjoy every moment spent cooking!

 Ingredients: 500 ml milk, 150 g fine semolina for pudding, 4 tablespoons sugar + 200 g for caramel, 50 g butter, 2 eggs, 200 g sweet cow cheese, lemon zest, vanilla