Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat until smooth.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan with the ricotta mixture, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
4. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to boil.
5. Once the mixture has boiled, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps or solids.
6. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the crema to prevent a skin from forming.
7. Chill the crema in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
5. Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of crema
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1/4 cup):
Calories: 190
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 45mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 14g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be used in place of heavy cream for a lighter version of the crema.
- Mascarpone cheese can be used in place of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Stir in chopped nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, for added texture.
- Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the mixture constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
- Straining the mixture through a fine mesh strainer will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Cover the crema with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Storage instructions:
Store the crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
The crema can be reheated gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the crema in individual dessert cups or ramekins for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Top with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Pairings:
Serve the crema with fresh fruit, biscotti, or shortbread cookies for a delicious dessert pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
The crema can be served as a dessert on its own or paired with a light salad or fruit plate for a refreshing finish to a meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the crema is too thick, whisk in a small amount of milk or cream to thin it out to the desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to store the crema in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days to prevent any foodborne illness.
Food history:
Crema pasticciera is a classic Italian custard used in many desserts, including tarts, cakes, and pastries.
Flavor profiles:
The ricotta crema pasticciera is creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy from the ricotta cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the crema chilled as a dessert or use it as a filling for cakes, tarts, or pastries.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Creamy, Sweet, Rich, Vanilla, Vanilla-Flavored