Afghan-style Apple Bread Pudding

Ingredients

In this Afghan adaptation of Žemlovka, we replace the traditional Slovak ingredients like raisins and vanilla with Afghan flavors such as cardamom and pistachios. The use of apples adds a refreshing twist to the dish, enhancing its sweetness and providing a burst of fruity flavor. Additionally, the bread is soaked in a creamy custard mixture infused with aromatic spices, giving it a unique Afghan touch. We alse have the original recipe for Žemlovka, so you can check it out.

• 6 cups (600g) stale bread, cut into cubes 6 cups (600g) stale bread, cut into cubes
• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish Butter, for greasing the baking dish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 25g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon. Whisk until well combined.
3. 3.
   Place a layer of bread cubes in the greased baking dish, followed by a layer of sliced apples. Repeat the layers until all the bread and apples are used, ending with a layer of bread on top.
4. 4.
   Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and apples, ensuring that all the bread is soaked.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of Afghan-style Apple Bread Pudding.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose sweet and crisp varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• Cardamom — Use freshly ground cardamom for maximum flavor. If using pre-ground cardamom, adjust the quantity according to taste.
• Pistachios — Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the whole milk with evaporated milk.
• Serve the bread pudding warm with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• Feel free to add a sprinkle of Afghan saffron threads on top for a touch of luxury.
• If you prefer a softer texture, let the bread pudding sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the custard to fully set.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated gently in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Afghan-style Apple Bread Pudding warm as a delightful dessert after a traditional Afghan meal. It pairs well with a cup of Afghan green tea or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the bread pudding with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. You can also garnish with a few extra chopped pistachios for an added pop of color.