Cream of Wheat with Fruit

Cream of Wheat with Fruit Recipe from Moldova and Romania

Region / culture: Moldova, Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cream of Wheat with Fruit is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the smooth texture of cream of wheat with the sweetness of fresh fruit to create a delightful treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Cream of Wheat with Fruit has been a popular dessert for many years, with variations of the recipe being enjoyed in different cultures around the world. The combination of cream of wheat and fruit creates a comforting and satisfying dish that is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

25 oz / 750 g of water
1 lb / 500 g of fruit (sour cherries or raspberries, strawberries, wild strawberries, gooseberries)
3 – 4 tbsp of sugar
5 oz / 150 g of cream of wheat
vanilla

How to prepare

Boil the fruits.
After the mixture comes to a boil, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Then, strain the fruits and liquid.
In a separate pot, bring the strained mixture to a boil again. Add sugar, vanilla, and cream of wheat gradually, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
Remove the pot from the heat and beat the mixture until it becomes foamy.
Pour the mixture into a charlotte or pudding mold that has been moistened with cold water beforehand.
Refrigerate the mold for 2 – 3 hours.
Before serving, carefully turn the mold upside down onto a plate and garnish with fresh fruit.

Variations

Try using different types of fruit, such as berries, peaches, or apples, to create a unique flavor combination.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and comforting twist.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the mixture continuously while adding the cream of wheat to prevent lumps from forming.

- You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cream of Wheat with Fruit as a light and refreshing dessert after a meal. Garnish with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir the mixture continuously while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours to allow it to set and thicken before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream of wheat, you can use semolina or cornmeal as a substitute.

- Feel free to use any type of fruit that you have on hand, such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream of Wheat with Fruit can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

To make this dessert even more visually appealing, garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. You can also serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cream of Wheat with Fruit pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. You can also serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cream of Wheat with Fruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Cream of Wheat with Fruit contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and satisfying dessert option. This dish is a great choice for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat without consuming excessive calories.

Carbohydrates

Cream of Wheat with Fruit is a carbohydrate-rich dessert, providing a good source of energy for your body. The cream of wheat and fruit combination offers a balance of complex carbohydrates that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, making it a healthy dessert option for those looking to reduce their fat intake. The cream of wheat provides a creamy texture without the need for added fats, while the fruit adds natural sweetness without the need for added oils or butter.

Proteins

Cream of Wheat with Fruit is not a significant source of protein, as the main ingredients are carbohydrates and fruit. To increase the protein content of this dish, you can add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts or seeds on top.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the addition of fresh fruit. Gooseberries are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber, while cream of wheat provides essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as gluten (from the cream of wheat) and dairy (from the cream). If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients carefully and make any necessary substitutions.

Summary

Cream of Wheat with Fruit is a nutritious and delicious dessert that is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. With a balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a great choice for a light and refreshing treat.

Summary

Cream of Wheat with Fruit is a delightful and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a healthy and satisfying option for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat. Enjoy the smooth texture of cream of wheat combined with the sweetness of fresh fruit for a delicious and comforting dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. The idea of combining creamy warm wheat with the sweetness of fruit seemed like the perfect comfort food. I had always been a fan of Cream of Wheat, but adding fruit to it was a game changer. It was like a burst of sunshine in a bowl.

I first came across this recipe many years ago when I was visiting my friend Martha. Martha was an excellent cook and always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve. She was the kind of person who could throw together a gourmet meal with whatever she had in her pantry. I admired her creativity in the kitchen and was always eager to learn from her.

One morning, Martha invited me over for breakfast and served me a bowl of Cream of Wheat with fruit. It was a simple yet elegant dish, with the warm wheat mingling with the sweetness of the fruit. I was immediately hooked. I asked Martha for the recipe, and she chuckled and said it was so easy, she almost felt guilty sharing it.

She told me to start by cooking the Cream of Wheat according to the package instructions. Once it was ready, she said to add a generous amount of fresh fruit on top. Martha used bananas, strawberries, and blueberries, but she said any fruit would work. She also sprinkled a bit of brown sugar on top for extra sweetness. The result was a bowl of warm, creamy goodness that was both satisfying and comforting.

I went home that day and made Cream of Wheat with fruit for myself. I followed Martha's instructions to a tee, using bananas, strawberries, and blueberries as she had done. I sprinkled brown sugar on top and took a bite. It was like a taste of heaven. The creamy wheat paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy fruit. It was a breakfast that made me feel warm and happy inside.

From that day on, Cream of Wheat with fruit became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for myself on lazy weekend mornings, and I also served it to guests when they came over for brunch. Everyone who tried it loved it, and many asked for the recipe. I was happy to share it, knowing that Martha's simple yet delicious creation was bringing joy to others.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe a bit to make it my own. I have experimented with different fruits, such as peaches, raspberries, and mangoes. I have also added nuts and seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Each time I make Cream of Wheat with fruit, I am reminded of that morning at Martha's house and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a cherished favorite.

As I sit here now, writing down this story, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, whether it is a family recipe passed down through generations or a new creation inspired by a friend. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself and connect with others. It is a source of joy and comfort, and I am grateful for the ability to share that joy with others through my food.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious breakfast, I encourage you to try Cream of Wheat with fruit. It is a simple yet elegant dish that will warm your soul and brighten your day. And who knows, maybe it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.