Avocado Pudding

Avocado Pudding Recipe from USA with California Avocado

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Avocado pudding is a creamy, delicious dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavor of avocados with the sweet, comforting taste of traditional pudding. This unique twist on a classic dessert is not only a treat for your taste buds but also offers a bounty of nutritional benefits. Perfect for those looking to indulge in something sweet without straying too far from a health-conscious diet, avocado pudding is easy to make and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.

History

The concept of incorporating avocados into desserts is not entirely new. Cultures around the world have been using avocados in sweet applications for decades, particularly in South America and Southeast Asia, where the fruit is abundant. However, the idea of avocado pudding gained popularity in the United States and other Western countries in the early 21st century, as the health benefits of avocados became more widely recognized and the interest in healthier dessert options grew.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of instant dry milk
3 tbsp of sugar
3 tbsp of cornstarch, measured without packing
0.25 tsp of salt
0.75 cup of milk
1.25 cup of water
1 beaten egg
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 tbsp of unsalted butter, cut into bits
1 mashed california avocado, with a bit of lemon juice added

How to prepare

Mix instant dry milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Slowly whisk in milk and water.
Cook, stirring over moderate heat until the pudding thickens and bubbles form around the edges.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, add vanilla to beaten egg.
Stir in California avocado.
Add 0.5 cup of hot pudding to this mixture and stir.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and whisk until blended.
Whisk in bits of butter.
Strain the mixture into 4 individual serving dishes.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill.

Variations

Consider adding cocoa powder for a chocolate avocado pudding, blending in berries for a fruity twist, or incorporating coconut milk for a tropical flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect consistency and flavor for your avocado pudding, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe avocados that are soft to the touch for a creamy texture.

- Blend the avocado thoroughly to avoid any lumps in your pudding.

- Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less sugar.

- For a richer taste, consider using full-fat milk or a combination of milk and cream.

- Chill the pudding for at least an hour before serving to allow it to set properly.

Serving Suggestions

Avocado pudding can be served chilled, topped with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a smooth avocado pudding is thorough blending and gentle cooking to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Straining the mixture ensures a silky texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy milk and a flaxseed egg substitute. Agave syrup or maple syrup can replace sugar for a natural sweetener option.

Make Ahead Tips

Avocado pudding can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.

Presentation Ideas

Serve avocado pudding in clear glasses layered with granola and fruit for a visually appealing and texturally varied dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Avocado pudding pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity dessert wine. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water flavored with citrus or berries.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store avocado pudding covered in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Stir well before serving if separation occurs.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of avocado pudding contains approximately 200-300 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the ingredients used and the serving size. For a lower-calorie version, consider using skim milk and a sugar substitute.

Carbohydrates

A serving of avocado pudding contains approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size. The carbohydrates primarily come from the sugar and milk in the recipe. Opting for low-fat milk or sugar substitutes can alter the carbohydrate content.

Fats

Avocado pudding is a good source of healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats, thanks to the avocado. A serving can contain anywhere from 15 to 25 grams of fat, again depending on the exact ingredients and portions. These healthy fats are beneficial for heart health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Proteins

Each serving of avocado pudding provides a modest amount of protein, ranging from 3 to 5 grams. The protein comes from the milk and egg in the recipe. For a higher protein content, consider using higher-protein milk alternatives or adding a scoop of protein powder.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocado pudding is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, potassium, and folate, thanks to the avocado. It also provides calcium and Vitamin D from the milk. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and heart health.

Alergens

Common allergens in avocado pudding include dairy (from the milk) and eggs. For those with allergies or intolerances, dairy-free milk alternatives and egg substitutes can be used.

Summary

Avocado pudding is a nutritious dessert option that provides healthy fats, essential vitamins and minerals, and a moderate amount of protein and carbohydrates. It's a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to meet various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Avocado pudding is a versatile, nutritious dessert that combines the health benefits of avocados with the indulgent taste of traditional pudding. With options for customization and adjustments for dietary restrictions, it's a delightful treat that can fit into any meal plan.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little cottage by the sea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on freshly brewed tea, she suddenly jumped up with excitement and exclaimed, "I have the most delicious recipe to share with you, my dear!"

I watched in fascination as Maria rummaged through her collection of old cookbooks, finally pulling out a faded, yellowed page with handwritten notes scrawled across it. "Avocado Pudding," she announced triumphantly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

I had never heard of such a thing before. Avocado in a dessert? It sounded strange, but intriguing at the same time. Maria noticed my skepticism and laughed, assuring me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations.

She began to explain how her grandmother, a talented and adventurous cook, had discovered this unique dessert during a trip to Mexico many years ago. It was a simple yet delightful concoction made with ripe avocados, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. The creamy texture of the avocado combined with the sweetness of the milk created a luscious pudding that was both refreshing and satisfying.

Maria's grandmother had brought the recipe back home with her and it had become a beloved family favorite ever since. Over the years, Maria had perfected the recipe, adding her own twist by incorporating a hint of lime juice for a subtle tangy kick.

As Maria set to work in her kitchen, I eagerly watched and listened, taking in every step and ingredient with keen interest. The ripe avocados were peeled and mashed until smooth, the sweetened condensed milk added in slowly and carefully, followed by a generous splash of vanilla extract and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

The mixture was then chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set. When it was finally ready, Maria scooped it into small dessert bowls and garnished each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated chocolate.

I took my first spoonful of the avocado pudding, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as it touched my lips, I was transported to a world of creamy, indulgent bliss. The richness of the avocado was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk and the bright acidity of the lime juice. It was a revelation, a dessert unlike any I had ever tasted before.

Maria beamed with pride as I praised her culinary skills and showered her with compliments. She shared stories of her grandmother's adventures in the kitchen, her love for experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, and her passion for creating dishes that brought joy and comfort to her family and friends.

As I savored every last bite of the avocado pudding, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured addition to my own collection. I thanked Maria for sharing her family's culinary legacy with me and promised to carry on the tradition by passing it down to future generations.

And so, the avocado pudding became a staple in my kitchen, a dessert that never failed to impress and delight. Every time I made it, I thought of Maria and her grandmother, of their love for good food and great company, and of the joy that cooking and sharing a delicious meal can bring.

In the end, it wasn't just a recipe. It was a story, a memory, a connection to the past and a promise for the future. And as I stirred the creamy mixture in my bowl, I felt grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and good friends, and for the magic that happens when you combine the two.