Chinese Almond Pudding

Ingredients

While Umm Ali is a traditional Egyptian bread pudding made with puff pastry, nuts, and milk, Chinese Almond Pudding is a refined dessert that highlights the delicate flavors of almonds and rose water. The Chinese adaptation replaces the puff pastry with ground almonds and incorporates the use of rose water, which is a common ingredient in Chinese aristocrat cuisine. The result is a lighter and more fragrant dessert that showcases the elegance and sophistication of Chinese culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Umm ali, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) almond milk 1 cup (240ml) almond milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon rose water 1 teaspoon rose water
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 16g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine almond milk, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together ground almonds and cornstarch. Slowly add the almond mixture to the hot milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. 3.
   Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the rose water. Allow the pudding to cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Pour the pudding into individual serving bowls or ramekins. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
6. 6.
   Before serving, garnish with sliced almonds for added texture and visual appeal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond milk — Make sure to use unsweetened almond milk for a more balanced sweetness in the pudding.
• Ground almonds — You can either purchase ground almonds or grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced almond flavor, you can toast the ground almonds before adding them to the pudding mixture.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the pudding mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the serving bowls.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as edible rose petals or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added visual appeal.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese Almond Pudding chilled for the best experience. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing dessert or paired with fresh fruits for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, you can serve the pudding in elegant glass bowls or teacups. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of sliced almonds and a small edible flower for a touch of sophistication.