Desserts > Puddings > Tapioca Puddings

Lemon Tapioca Pudding Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Whipped cream and fresh berries for garnish

Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Lemon zester

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tapioca, water, and salt. Let it soak for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tapioca pearls are translucent and tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, and egg yolks until well combined.
5. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the tapioca mixture, stirring constantly.
6. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and zest.
8. Strain the pudding through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl.
9. Cover the surface of the pudding with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Serve chilled with whipped cream and fresh berries.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours or overnight
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering, and medium heat for cooking.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 4-6 servings.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 300
Total fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 53g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 42g
Protein: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Small pearl tapioca can be substituted with quick-cooking tapioca or instant tapioca.
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat milk or almond milk.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
- Lemon juice and zest can be substituted with lime juice and zest or orange juice and zest.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Top with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture.
- Substitute lemon juice and zest with other citrus fruits such as grapefruit or blood oranges.
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Soak the tapioca pearls for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
- Stir the pudding constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Strain the pudding through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg.
- Chill the pudding for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the pudding in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pudding in individual dessert cups or bowls. Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
Whipped cream, fresh berries, toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Pairings:
This lemon tapioca pudding pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
This dessert can be served on its own or paired with a light salad or fruit platter.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pudding is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the pudding is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the pudding to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Tapioca pudding is a traditional dessert that originated in Brazil and is now enjoyed worldwide. It is made with tapioca pearls, which are derived from the cassava plant.

Flavor profiles:
This lemon tapioca pudding is sweet, tangy, and creamy with a bright citrus flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this dessert chilled as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

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Taste: Citrusy, Sweet, Tangy, Creamy