Lithuanian-style Banana Pudding

Ingredients

In Lithuanian cuisine, the traditional Vietnamese Chè chuối is adapted to create a creamy and comforting banana pudding. The Lithuanian-style Banana Pudding incorporates a rich custard base, which is not typically found in the original Vietnamese dish. Additionally, the Lithuanian version is served chilled, providing a refreshing twist to the warm Vietnamese dessert. We alse have the original recipe for Chè chuối, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe bananas 4 ripe bananas
• 500ml (2 cups) whole milk 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 30g (1/4 cup) cornstarch 30g (1/4 cup) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for garnish (optional) Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional) Ground cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. 4.
   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove the custard from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Slice the bananas into thin rounds.
7. 7.
   In individual serving dishes or a large bowl, layer the banana slices and custard, starting with a layer of bananas and ending with a layer of custard on top.
8. 8.
   Cover the dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
9. 9.
   Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bananas — Choose ripe bananas with a vibrant yellow color and no green spots. They should be soft but not overly mushy for the best texture in the pudding.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, you can add a layer of crushed cookies or toasted nuts between the banana slices and custard for added texture.
• To prevent a skin from forming on the custard while it cools, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard.

Serving advice

Serve the Lithuanian-style Banana Pudding chilled for the best flavor and texture. It can be enjoyed as a delightful dessert on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Lithuanian-style Banana Pudding in individual glass dishes, allowing the layers of banana and custard to be visible. Top each serving with a swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon for an elegant finishing touch.