Ghanaian Coconut Pudding

Ingredients

While the original Puerto Rican Tembleque is typically made with coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, the Ghanaian adaptation adds a touch of vanilla and cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile. This variation brings a subtle warmth and depth to the dish, reflecting the traditional spices used in Ghanaian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Tembleque, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk 2 cups (470ml) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 12g)
• Carbohydrates: 24g (Sugars: 16g)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.
2. 2.
   Whisk the mixture until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
3. 3.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
4. 4.
   Continue to cook and stir for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
5. 5.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pudding cool for a few minutes.
6. 6.
   Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl.
7. 7.
   Cover the dishes with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
8. 8.
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is set and chilled.
9. 9.
   Serve the Ghanaian Coconut Pudding chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture.
• Cornstarch — Dissolve the cornstarch completely in the coconut milk mixture to avoid lumps in the pudding.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, you can add a splash of coconut rum to the pudding mixture before cooking for an adult version of this dessert.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the pudding mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before refrigerating.
• To add a crunchy element, top the chilled pudding with toasted coconut flakes or crushed peanuts.

Serving advice

Serve the Ghanaian Coconut Pudding chilled as a refreshing dessert after a delicious Ghanaian meal. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple.

Presentation advice

For an elegant presentation, serve the pudding in individual glass dessert cups or ramekins. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top and garnish with a mint leaf or a slice of fresh fruit.