Luumukiisseli Recipe - Traditional Finnish Prune Dessert

Luumukiisseli

Luumukiisseli Recipe - Traditional Finnish Prune Dessert
Region / culture: Finland | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Luumukiisseli
Luumukiisseli

Luumukiisseli is a traditional Finnish dessert made with prunes and a sweet broth thickened with corn starch. This dish is a comforting and delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Luumukiisseli has been a popular dessert in Finland for many years, especially during the colder months when warm and comforting dishes are preferred. The combination of sweet prunes and a tangy lemon broth creates a unique and flavorful dessert that is loved by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Soak the prunes in water sweetened with sugar until they become plump.
  2. Simmer the prunes, covered, over low heat with a stick of cinnamon until they become soft.
  3. Remove the prunes from the heat and transfer them to a glass bowl.
  4. Season the broth with the juice of 0.5 lemon and add sugar to taste.
  5. Dissolve the starch in a small amount of cold water and add it to the broth.
  6. Mix well and bring the mixture to a quick boil.
  7. Pour the mixture into the bowl with the prunes and sprinkle with sugar. (Note: the sugar will prevent excessive thickening of the surface)
  8. Serve the dish cold with riisipuuro or whipped cream.

Variations

  • Add a splash of rum or brandy to the broth for a boozy twist.
  • Substitute the prunes with dried apricots or figs for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the prunes in water and sugar to ensure they become plump and juicy.

- Simmer the prunes over low heat to ensure they become soft and tender.

- Dissolve the corn starch in cold water before adding it to the broth to prevent lumps from forming.

- Serve the luumukiisseli cold for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the luumukiisseli with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a bowl of riisipuuro for a traditional Finnish dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the prunes over low heat to ensure they become soft and tender.

- Thicken the broth with corn starch for a smooth and velvety texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

- Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch instead of corn starch for thickening.

Make Ahead Tips

The luumukiisseli can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the luumukiisseli in individual glass bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the luumukiisseli with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the luumukiisseli in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120 per serving

Carbohydrates

30g per serving

Fats

0g per serving

Proteins

1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 10% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 4% of daily value per serving

Alergens

This recipe may contain traces of gluten and nuts.

Summary

This dessert is low in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free treat for those watching their weight.

Summary

Luumukiisseli is a delicious and comforting Finnish dessert made with sweet prunes and a tangy lemon broth. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this traditional dessert cold with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a bowl of riisipuuro for a truly authentic Finnish experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Luumukiisseli. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, had invited some friends over for dinner one evening. As she bustled around the kitchen, preparing a feast for her guests, I watched in awe as she effortlessly whipped up dish after dish with ease.

One of the dishes she made that evening was Luumukiisseli, a traditional Finnish dessert made with stewed prunes and a thickened fruit juice. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I was eager to learn how to make it myself. So, as my grandmother worked her magic in the kitchen, I quietly observed, taking mental notes of each ingredient and step she took.

As the evening went on, I mustered up the courage to ask my grandmother if she would teach me how to make Luumukiisseli. She smiled warmly at me and agreed, happy to pass down her knowledge to the next generation. So, the next day, we spent the entire afternoon in the kitchen, with my grandmother patiently guiding me through the recipe.

First, she showed me how to stew the prunes in water and sugar until they were soft and tender. As the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at creating something so delicious from scratch. Next, she taught me how to strain the prunes, reserving the juice to be thickened with a cornstarch slurry.

I watched intently as my grandmother demonstrated the proper technique for thickening the fruit juice, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once the mixture had reached the perfect consistency, she poured it over the stewed prunes, creating a beautiful, glossy dessert that shimmered in the light.

Finally, it was time to taste the finished dish. As I took my first spoonful of the warm, velvety Luumukiisseli, I was transported back to that evening with my grandmother's friends, surrounded by laughter and good food. The flavors were rich and comforting, with just the right amount of sweetness from the prunes.

From that day on, Luumukiisseli became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, delighting in the smiles and compliments from my loved ones. And each time I made it, I would think back to that afternoon in the kitchen with my grandmother, grateful for the gift of her wisdom and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those I hold dear.

As the years went by, I continued to learn new recipes from my grandmother and others, each one adding to my culinary repertoire. But Luumukiisseli will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of where my love for cooking began and the bond I shared with my grandmother in the kitchen. And I hope that one day, I can pass down this recipe and the memories that accompany it to my own grandchildren, keeping the tradition alive for generations to come.

Categories

| Finnish Desserts | Finnish Recipes | Finnish Snacks | Lemon Juice Recipes | Potato Starch Recipes | Prune Recipes |

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