Semolina pudding

Mezes with semolina cream

If you are looking for a fascinating and traditional recipe, mezes with semolina cream is the perfect choice. This delicious dessert combines the fine texture of the sheets with a smooth cream, and the result is simply irresistible. The origins of this recipe are lost in the mists of time, being appreciated in various cultures for its elegance and refinement. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this dessert will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings

Ingredients for the sheets:
- 500 g of flour
- 150 g of honey
- 150 g of sugar
- 50 g of lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 50 ml of milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda or ammonia
- a pinch of salt

Ingredients for the cream:
- 1 l of milk
- 250 g of butter
- 150 g of semolina
- 200 g of sugar
- grated zest and juice of one large lemon
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee
- 1 cup of ground walnuts

Step by step: Preparing the sheets

1. Start by preparing the ingredients for the sheets. In a large bowl, add the milk, honey, sugar, lard, egg, and baking soda. Mix well with a whisk to combine the ingredients.

2. Place the bowl over a bain-marie and whisk the mixture over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, until it doubles in volume. This technique helps to incorporate air into the mixture, making the sheets fluffier.

3. Once the mixture is ready, remove the bowl from the heat and add the flour all at once. Stir with a wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous dough. At first, it may seem like it doesn't incorporate well, but keep mixing.

4. Allow the dough to cool slightly, then knead it with your hands until it becomes elastic and easy to handle. This is an important step, as kneading will help develop the gluten in the flour, giving the sheets a pleasant texture.

5. Divide the dough into five equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet, the size of your tray.

6. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the sheets on the bottom of the floured tray and bake for about 10 minutes, or until they turn slightly golden.

7. After baking, carefully detach the sheets with a knife and let them cool on a cooling rack.

Preparing the cream

1. In a saucepan, add the milk and semolina, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Place the mixture over medium heat and let it boil, stirring frequently, until you obtain a thick composition.

2. Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Add the lemon zest and juice, butter, and vanilla sugar, as well as 200 g of sugar. Mix well until the butter is completely melted.

3. Divide the cream into two equal parts. Leave one part white, and in the other add the dissolved instant coffee in a drop of water. This will provide a rich coffee flavor and create a pleasant contrast with the white cream.

Assembling the mezes

1. Choose a platter or tray for assembly. Place the first sheet of dough and spread a generous layer of white cream on top.

2. Continue alternating the sheets and creams: one sheet, a layer of cream with instant coffee, then another sheet, and so on, until you finish all the sheets.

3. Finally, spread a layer of white cream on top, sprinkled with ground walnuts, which will add a crunchy taste and a touch of refinement.

4. Let the dessert sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or, ideally, overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving

Mezes with semolina cream is served cold, cut into squares. It is perfect alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can also add a fresh fruit sauce to bring a note of freshness. This combination will turn every bite into an explosion of flavors.

Useful tips

- Use quality ingredients: honey, butter, and fresh lemons will make a significant difference in the final taste.
- If you want a gluten-free version, you can experiment with almond flour or rice flour, but keep in mind that the texture will be different.
- Semolina can be replaced with cornstarch or tapioca flour for a smoother cream.
- You can add flavors like vanilla or cinnamon to the white cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Nutritional information (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or honey instead of white sugar, but the taste will vary.

2. How do I store the mezes for longer?
Keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

3. Can I freeze the mezes?
Yes, you can freeze the dessert, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste experience.

I invite you to try this recipe for mezes with semolina cream, enjoy preparing it, and enrich your meals with a delicious and traditional dessert. It can certainly become a family favorite!

 Ingredients: Ingredients for the sheets: 500 g of flour, 150 g of honey, 150 g of sugar, 50 g of lard, 50 ml of milk, one egg, 1 teaspoon of baking soda or ammonia, salt. Ingredients for the cream: 1 l of milk, 250 g of butter, 150 g of semolina, 200 g of sugar, grated zest and juice of one large lemon, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon of instant coffee, 1 cup of ground walnuts.