Banana-Coconut Pudding

Banana-Coconut Pudding Recipe from Malaysia - Ingredients include pearl tapioca, coconut milk, and bananas

Region / culture: Malaysia | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Banana-Coconut Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of coconut milk with the sweet, tropical flavor of bananas. This recipe is a wonderful way to end any meal on a light, refreshing note. It's simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and offers a unique twist on traditional pudding recipes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this pudding is sure to impress with its exotic flavors and elegant presentation.

History

The origins of Banana-Coconut Pudding can be traced back to Southeast Asia, where both bananas and coconuts are abundant. Over time, this dessert has traveled and evolved, incorporating various local ingredients and techniques. The addition of tapioca pearls and crystallized ginger in this version adds texture and a spicy-sweet flavor that elevates the dish. This recipe is a testament to the fusion of cultures and the global love for simple, delicious desserts.

Ingredients

1 tbsp small pearl tapioca
1 (14 oz (397 g)) can light, unsweetened coconut milk
2 tbsp coarsely chopped crystallized ginger
0.33 cup sugar
3 firm, ripe bananas
minced crystallized ginger

How to prepare

In a small bowl, soak the tapioca in enough warm water to cover for 1 hour.
While the tapioca is soaking, in a small saucepan, cook the coconut milk, ginger, and sugar over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved.
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture stand for 10 minutes. Drain the tapioca.
Peel the bananas and quarter them lengthwise. Cut the quarters into 0.5 inch pieces.
Heat the coconut milk mixture over low heat and gently stir in the tapioca and bananas.
Cook the pudding, stirring carefully to avoid breaking up the bananas, until slightly thickened and the bananas are heated through, about 5 minutes. Allow it to cool.
Divide the pudding among six ramekins and chill, covered, until cold. Garnish the puddings with crystallized ginger.

Variations

For a vegan version, ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. You can also experiment with adding different fruits, such as mango or pineapple, for a tropical twist. For those who enjoy a bit of texture, adding a layer of crushed biscuits at the bottom of each ramekin before adding the pudding can provide a delightful crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, use firm, ripe bananas that will hold their shape during cooking. Soaking the tapioca pearls is crucial for achieving the right consistency, so don't skip this step. For a smoother pudding, you can blend the banana mixture before adding the tapioca. Lastly, gently stirring the mixture while cooking will prevent the bananas from breaking apart and help achieve a uniform texture.

Serving Suggestions

This pudding is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert for warm weather. Garnish with a sprinkle of minced crystallized ginger or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra touch of elegance. It can also be served alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is gentle cooking to preserve the texture of the bananas and ensure the tapioca pearls are perfectly soft. Soaking the tapioca and allowing the coconut milk mixture to infuse with ginger are also crucial steps that impact the flavor and consistency of the pudding.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find crystallized ginger, you can substitute it with a half teaspoon of ground ginger for a similar flavor profile. In case tapioca pearls are not available, chia seeds can be used as a thickener, though the texture will be different.

Make Ahead Tips

This pudding can be made up to two days in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Simply prepare according to the recipe, chill in the refrigerator, and garnish before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pudding in clear ramekins or glasses to show off the layers of banana and tapioca. A garnish of fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add color and texture, enhancing the visual appeal of the dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana-Coconut Pudding pairs wonderfully with light, fruity wines such as Moscato or Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling coconut water or a tropical fruit punch complements the flavors of the pudding beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This pudding should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, and is best enjoyed cold. It is not recommended to freeze or reheat this dessert, as it may affect the texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delightful pudding contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option. This calorie count allows for indulgence without overdoing it, perfect for those mindful of their intake.

Carbohydrates

This Banana-Coconut Pudding is relatively low in carbohydrates compared to other desserts. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, with the majority coming from the natural sugars in bananas and the added sugar. The tapioca pearls also contribute a small amount of carbohydrates.

Fats

Thanks to the use of light, unsweetened coconut milk, this pudding is lower in fat than many other dessert options. Each serving contains about 5 grams of fat, most of which is saturated due to the nature of coconut milk. However, it's still a healthier choice compared to desserts made with heavy cream or full-fat dairy products.

Proteins

This dessert is not a significant source of protein, containing only about 2 grams per serving. If you're looking to increase the protein content, consider serving it with a side of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana-Coconut Pudding provides a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from the bananas and various B vitamins from the coconut milk. It also contains a small amount of magnesium and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains no major allergens like gluten, nuts, or dairy. However, those with allergies to coconuts should avoid this dessert. As always, check the labels on all ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, Banana-Coconut Pudding is a healthier dessert option that doesn't sacrifice flavor. It's low in fats and carbohydrates while providing beneficial vitamins and minerals. It's also allergen-friendly, making it a great choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Summary

Banana-Coconut Pudding is a versatile, delicious dessert that's perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a great way to enjoy the flavors of the tropics in a light, refreshing way. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight treat or a sophisticated dessert for entertaining, this pudding is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were stained and yellowed with age, but as soon as I read the ingredients for Banana-Coconut Pudding, I knew I had to try it.

I remember the excitement I felt as I gathered the necessary ingredients from my kitchen pantry. The ripe bananas, the sweetened shredded coconut, the creamy milk and eggs - it was all there, waiting to be transformed into a delicious dessert that would soon become a family favorite.

As I followed the instructions in the cookbook, I couldn't help but think back to all the other recipes I had learned over the years. Some had come from my own mother, who was a wonderful cook in her own right. Others had been shared with me by friends and neighbors, each one adding a unique flavor to my culinary repertoire.

But there was something special about this recipe for Banana-Coconut Pudding. Perhaps it was the simplicity of the ingredients, or the way they came together to create a dish that was both comforting and decadent at the same time. Whatever the reason, I knew that this dessert would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

As the pudding baked in the oven, filling my kitchen with the sweet aroma of ripe bananas and toasty coconut, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to the past, a way of preserving the traditions and memories of those who had come before me.

When the pudding was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste it. The creamy custard, speckled with chunks of ripe banana and flecks of coconut, was a delight to the senses. Each spoonful was a symphony of flavors, blending together in perfect harmony to create a dessert that was truly unforgettable.

As I sat down to enjoy my creation, I couldn't help but think of all the people who had contributed to my culinary journey. From my grandmother to my mother, from my friends to my neighbors, each one had played a role in shaping me into the cook I had become. And now, as I savored the last bite of Banana-Coconut Pudding, I knew that I would carry on their legacy, passing down this cherished recipe to future generations.

With a contented sigh, I pushed back my chair and cleared the dishes from the table. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time would always bring a smile to my face, a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that cooking had brought into my life. And as I closed the cookbook and put it back on the shelf, I knew that I would continue to explore new recipes, new flavors, and new memories for many years to come.