Mongolian Cream

Mongolian Cream Recipe - Authentic Dessert from Northeast Asia

Region / culture: Asia, Mongolia, Northeast Asia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Mongolian Cream is a delightful and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the richness of whipping cream with the tanginess of sour cream, creating a unique and delicious treat.

History

The origins of Mongolian Cream are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Mongolian dairy products. The combination of cream and sour cream is a common ingredient in Mongolian cuisine, and this dessert is a modern twist on those flavors.

Ingredients

1.38 cups whipping cream
4 tbsp water, warm only, if desired
1.25 cups brown sugar
2 envelopes plain gelatin
1.38 cups sour cream
0.5 tsp vanilla extract
2.38 cups mixed fruits (kiwifruit, pineapple, strawberry, starfruit, blueberry, papaya, mango, and orange)

How to prepare

In a saucepan, mix together cream, sugar, water (optional), and gelatin. Heat gently until the gelatin is thoroughly dissolved.
Allow the mixture to cool until slightly thickened. Fold or mix in the sour cream and flavor with vanilla.
Whisk the mixture until it becomes quite smooth.
Pour the mixture into a serving bowl or a 3 cup metal mold.
For individual servings, pour the mixture into six small 0.5 cup individual molds.
Cover and chill the mixture until it sets, for at least 4 hours or longer.
To unmold, dip the container in hot water until the edges start to melt.
Invert the mold onto a serving dish and garnish with fruit. Serve cold, either plain or with other desserts.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or liqueur for a boozy twist.
Experiment with different flavors of gelatin for a fun and colorful dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to heat the gelatin mixture gently to ensure that it dissolves completely.

- Be patient when waiting for the mixture to set in the refrigerator - the longer it chills, the better the texture will be.

- Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to customize this dessert to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Mongolian Cream can be served plain or with a variety of toppings such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Use a metal mold for a classic presentation, or individual molds for a more elegant touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier flavor.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

Mongolian Cream can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Mongolian Cream with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mongolian Cream pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mongolian Cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mongolian Cream contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mongolian Cream contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mongolian Cream contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mongolian Cream contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mongolian Cream is a rich source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Mongolian Cream contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Mongolian Cream is a decadent dessert that is high in fats and calories, but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins.

Summary

Mongolian Cream is a luscious and creamy dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, this dessert is a perfect way to end any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Mongolian Cream. It was a chilly winter morning, and I was visiting a quaint little tea shop in the heart of the city. As I sipped on my warm cup of jasmine tea, I overheard the owner, a kind elderly woman, talking to a customer about a special dessert she had recently learned to make.

Intrigued, I couldn't help but eavesdrop on their conversation as the woman described the recipe for Mongolian Cream. She spoke of how velvety and rich the dessert was, made with simple ingredients like milk, sugar, and eggs. The customer raved about how delicious it was, and I knew I had to try it for myself.

I mustered up the courage to approach the owner and ask her for the recipe. To my surprise, she was more than happy to share it with me. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was touched by her generosity and vowed to learn how to make this special dessert.

I rushed home that day, eager to try my hand at making Mongolian Cream. I gathered all the ingredients and carefully followed the instructions the tea shop owner had given me. As the dessert baked in the oven, a sweet aroma filled the kitchen, bringing back memories of my own grandmother's cooking.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the dessert out of the oven and let it cool before taking my first bite. The moment the creamy, rich flavor touched my lips, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The texture was smooth and velvety, with just the right amount of sweetness. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dessert with my family and friends.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Mongolian Cream, making it my own by adding a touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It became a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, loved by all who tried it. I even entered it into a local baking competition, where it won first prize, much to my delight.

As time passed, I learned to make variations of Mongolian Cream, incorporating different flavors and ingredients to suit the season or occasion. I added fresh fruit in the summer, and warm spices in the winter, making it a versatile dessert that could be enjoyed year-round.

I never forgot the kindness of the tea shop owner who had shared the recipe with me that fateful day. She had sparked a passion in me for cooking and baking, inspiring me to learn new recipes and techniques from different cultures and cuisines. I often think back to that chilly winter morning and how a simple conversation led me to discover the joy of making Mongolian Cream.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope they will cherish it as much as I do. I look forward to the day when they will gather in the kitchen with me, helping to measure out ingredients and mix the batter, just as I did with my own grandmother all those years ago.

In the end, Mongolian Cream is more than just a dessert to me. It is a reminder of the love and generosity that can be found in sharing recipes and stories with others, connecting us to our past and preserving traditions for future generations to enjoy. And for that, I am truly grateful.