Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding

Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding is a delicious and unique dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple. The addition of a fluffy meringue topping adds a light and airy finish to this decadent treat.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional rice pudding, which has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of pineapple and meringue gives this classic dessert a refreshing and elegant touch.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
4 cups milk, divided
0.75 cup sugar, divided
0.25 tsp salt
4 eggs, separated
1.5 tsp vanilla extract, divided
1 20 oz (567 g) can pineapple chunks, drained and quartered
0.25 tsp cream of tartar
red currant jelly

How to prepare

Combine 3 cups of rice, 0.25 cups of sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
Cook the mixture over medium heat until it becomes thick and creamy, which should take about 30 minutes. Stir frequently.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and then add 1 cup of milk and 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
Stir the egg yolk mixture into the rice mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in some pineapple. Pour the mixture into a buttered shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they become foamy. Gradually add 0.5 cups of sugar, cream of tartar, and the remaining 0.5 tsp of vanilla extract.
Continue beating until the mixture becomes stiff but not dry. Swirl it lightly on top of the pudding.
Bake the dish at 400°F (204°C) for about 5 minutes.
Finally, top the pudding with dollops of red currant jelly. Serve it warm or cold.

Variations

Substitute the pineapple with diced mango or peaches for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of rum or coconut extract to the rice pudding mixture for a tropical twist.
Top the pudding with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the rice pudding mixture frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- When making the meringue topping, make sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks for the best texture.

- For a more tropical flavor, you can add shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts to the rice pudding mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is crucial for creating a light and fluffy meringue topping.

- Cooking the rice pudding mixture over medium heat and stirring frequently helps to achieve a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative in this recipe.

- Instead of pineapple, you can use canned mandarin oranges or diced apples.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice pudding mixture and meringue topping ahead of time and assemble the dish just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation, or in a large serving dish for a family-style dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of chilled white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and milk.

Summary

Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of essential nutrients.

Summary

Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of rice pudding with the tropical flavor of pineapple. The fluffy meringue topping adds a light and airy finish to this decadent treat, making it a perfect ending to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village nestled in the countryside. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, had taught me the basics of cooking and baking, but I was always eager to learn new recipes and techniques.

One day, while I was visiting the local market, I came across a vendor selling fresh pineapples. The sweet aroma of the fruit filled the air, and I couldn't resist buying one to take home. As I was walking back to my grandmother's house, I noticed a small, old cookbook lying on a table outside a secondhand bookstore. Curious, I picked it up and began flipping through its pages.

To my delight, I found a recipe for Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding. The combination of creamy rice pudding, sweet pineapple, and fluffy meringue sounded absolutely delicious. I knew I had to try making it for my family.

That evening, after dinner, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I cooked the rice pudding on the stove, infusing it with vanilla and pineapple juice for added flavor. Once the pudding had thickened, I stirred in chunks of fresh pineapple and poured it into a baking dish.

While the pudding baked in the oven, I whipped up a batch of meringue, beating the egg whites until they formed stiff peaks. I spread the meringue over the top of the pudding, creating soft peaks with the back of a spoon.

As I watched the pudding bake in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the meringue had turned a golden brown, I knew it was ready. I carefully removed it from the oven and set it on the counter to cool.

The next day, I served the Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding to my family for dessert. Their eyes widened in delight as they took their first bite, savoring the creamy pudding, tangy pineapple, and airy meringue. It was a hit, and they couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was.

From that moment on, Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding became a family favorite. Whenever we had guests over or a special occasion to celebrate, I would whip up a batch and watch as their faces lit up with joy at the first taste.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and neighbors, passing down the secret to creating the perfect Meringue-topped Pineapple Rice Pudding. It has become a staple in our family, a dish that brings us together and creates lasting memories.

As I think back on that fateful day at the market, when I stumbled upon the recipe that would become a treasured family tradition, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings. It is a way to connect with loved ones, to create something special with your own hands, and to savor the simple pleasures of life. And for that, I am forever grateful.