Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of fresh plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped plums, water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Using a blender or food processor, puree the plum mixture until smooth.
5. Strain the puree through a fine mesh strainer into a clean saucepan.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.
7. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the plum puree.
8. Return the pan to the stove and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
9. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the kissel has a pudding-like consistency.
10. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
11. Pour the kissel into individual serving dishes and refrigerate until set, about 2-3 hours.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, medium-low heat for simmering, and medium heat for thickening.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 150
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 33g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Plums can be substituted with other stone fruits such as peaches or apricots.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice or apple cider vinegar.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Use the kissel as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to strain the plum puree to remove any bits of skin or pulp for a smooth texture.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to taste, depending on the sweetness of the plums.
- To prevent lumps, whisk the cornstarch mixture until smooth before adding it to the plum puree.
Storage Instructions:
Store the plum kissel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, microwave the kissel for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the plum kissel in individual dessert dishes or ramekins for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.
Pairings:
Pair the plum kissel with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the plum kissel with a side of shortbread cookies or biscotti.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the kissel is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the kissel is too thin, whisk in a bit more cornstarch and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to wash the plums thoroughly before using them in the recipe.
- Store the kissel in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
Kissel is a traditional Russian dessert made with fruit puree, sugar, and starch. It is typically served cold and has a pudding-like texture.
Flavor Profiles:
The plum kissel has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the plum kissel as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
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Region: Russian