Apple Meringue Rice Custard

Apple Meringue Rice Custard Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

The Apple Meringue Rice Custard is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice custard with the tartness of apples and the sweet, airy touch of meringue. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a dessert that's not overly sweet but is rich in flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for a comforting treat to end your meal or a special dessert to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of rice custard can be traced back to Europe, where rice was often used in desserts for its creamy texture and ability to blend well with other flavors. The addition of apples and meringue gives this traditional dessert a unique twist, combining elements of American and European cuisine. This recipe has evolved over time, with each generation adding its own touch to create the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and creaminess.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
3 cups milk, divided
0.75 cup plus 2 tbsp sugar, divided
2 tbsp butter or margarine
0.75 tsp salt, divided
3 eggs, separated
1 tsp vanilla extract, divided
0.5 tsp grated lemon peel
1 tart apple, cored and finely chopped
0.25 cup raisins
0.25 cup chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Combine rice, 2.5 cups of milk, 0.5 cup of sugar, butter, and 0.5 tsp of salt in a medium saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until thickened, for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring frequently.
Beat egg yolks with the remaining 0.5 cup of milk.
Add the egg yolk mixture to the rice mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Add 0.5 tsp of vanilla extract and lemon peel.
Transfer half of the mixture into a buttered shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Combine apple, raisins, and walnuts.
Sprinkle the apple mixture over the rice. Top with the remaining custard.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until hot.
Beat egg whites until frothy.
Add the remaining 0.25 cup plus 2 tbsp of sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
Continue beating until stiff but not dry.
Spread the meringue over the hot filling, sealing it to the edges of the dish.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the peaks are golden brown. Serve warm.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting pears for apples or adding a layer of caramel sauce between the custard and meringue. For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Meringue Rice Custard turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use a tart apple variety like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.

- Ensure the rice is cooked until just tender to avoid a mushy texture in the custard.

- When making the meringue, ensure the bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry to help achieve stiff peaks.

- For a beautiful golden meringue, broil the dessert for the last minute of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is best served warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include cooking the rice custard to the perfect consistency, whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks for the meringue, and baking the dessert until the meringue is golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of margarine, butter can be used as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, almond or coconut milk can replace cow's milk, and a dairy-free butter alternative can be used.

Make Ahead Tips

The rice custard base can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble with the apple mixture and meringue topping just before baking to ensure the best texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dessert in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Garnish with a thin apple slice or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet Riesling or a sparkling Moscato pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples and the sweetness of the meringue, making for a delightful dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until just warm. Note that the meringue may not retain its original texture upon reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Apple Meringue Rice Custard contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a relatively indulgent choice, suitable for an occasional treat.

Carbohydrates

This dessert is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the rice, sugar, and fruit. A single serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Those monitoring their carbohydrate intake should consider this when planning their meals.

Fats

The Apple Meringue Rice Custard contains moderate amounts of fat, coming from the margarine, eggs, and walnuts. Each serving has about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this dessert provides around 6 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and milk. This contributes to the overall nutritional balance of the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk, vitamin C from the apples, and various B vitamins from the eggs and nuts. It also provides iron and potassium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk, and nuts. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dessert or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Apple Meringue Rice Custard is a dessert that offers a balance of flavors and textures, along with a moderate nutritional profile. It's rich in carbohydrates and provides a decent amount of protein and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

The Apple Meringue Rice Custard is a classic dessert with a twist, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With its rich history and versatile nature, this dessert is sure to become a favorite for special occasions or as a comforting treat. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a beautiful afternoon in the countryside, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Johnson. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and chatting about life, she suddenly pulled out a worn and weathered recipe card from a drawer.

"Have you ever tried Apple Meringue Rice Custard, my dear?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I shook my head, intrigued by the sound of the unique dessert. Mrs. Johnson explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, a special treat that she only made on special occasions.

As she read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering. The combination of apples, creamy rice custard, and fluffy meringue sounded like a match made in dessert heaven.

Mrs. Johnson must have noticed my interest because she offered to teach me how to make it right then and there. I eagerly accepted, eager to learn the secrets behind this delicious dish.

We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, peeling apples, cooking rice, and whipping up the meringue. Mrs. Johnson guided me through each step with patience and care, sharing stories of her own grandmother who had taught her how to make the dish many years ago.

As the dessert baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples, Mrs. Johnson and I sat at the table, sipping tea and reminiscing about the past. She told me how her grandmother used to make the dessert for special family gatherings, using apples picked fresh from the orchard and eggs from their own chickens.

When the timer finally dinged, signaling that the Apple Meringue Rice Custard was ready, we eagerly pulled it out of the oven. The meringue was golden and fluffy, the apples soft and fragrant, and the rice custard creamy and decadent.

We each took a bite, savoring the complex flavors and textures of the dessert. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, creamy and crunchy.

As we finished our slices, Mrs. Johnson smiled at me, her eyes shining with pride. "You did a wonderful job, my dear," she said. "I can see that you have a talent for cooking, just like my grandmother always said."

I felt a warm glow of happiness at her words, knowing that I had learned a valuable recipe from a dear friend that day. I thanked Mrs. Johnson for her kindness and generosity, promising to carry on the tradition of making Apple Meringue Rice Custard for my own family and friends.

And so, that is how I learned to make this special dessert, a recipe that has now become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen. I think of Mrs. Johnson every time I make it, remembering the sunny afternoon we spent together, bonding over our love of good food and cherished family traditions.

I am grateful for her friendship and the gift of her treasured recipe, a reminder of the power of shared meals and shared memories. And as I savor each bite of Apple Meringue Rice Custard, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joys of cooking and the love that goes into each dish we create.