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Semolina pudding

⏱ 60 min🍳 40 min👤 6 pp★★★☆☆

The pudding is a typical dessert of the Campania region where the tradition is to make it only for Carnival, specifically Shrove Tuesday. Each family has its own recipe. This is a very simple dish, made with natural ingredients which are readily available. One of the secrets to success with this cake is the quality of the ricotta, which might seem an optional ingredient but in reality it is essential to give the dessert softness and the correct texture, whilst the semolina provides gives the sweetness that makes it special. The pudding is prepared by cooking the semolina in sweetened milk, and then combining the eggs, cottage cheese, vanilla, butter and lemon fragrance (or orange, depending on your taste and the recipe). It is a kind of baked ‘custard’. Its simplicity will captivate although it was made with whatever was available in the pantry, hence the more elaborate versions which include the addition of raisins, pine nuts or candied fruit, and basic versions without cheese or even simply salted.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving
Protein
10g
Carbohydrates
82g
Fat
15g
Fiber
1g

* approximate values per serving

Information
60 minutes Total time
40 minutes Active time
Serves 6 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Prepare all the ingredients. Grate the lemon zest. Put the water, milk and lemon zest into a saucepan. Warm until boiling point, then remove from heat and pour in the semolina. Return to the heat and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, add the butter and let cool. Mix the ricotta with a whole egg and 3 egg yolks. Combine with the Limoncello, vanilla essence and mix well, removing any lumps. Combine the ricotta mixture with the semolina in a large bowl. Gently add the beaten egg whites and fold them in gently. Place the mixture into a buttered and floured baking tray with low sides. Bake at 180 °C for about 40 minutes, until browned. Remove from oven, let it cool completely, tip out of the baking tray, and sprinkle with icing sugar.

Tips
Choose organic lemons and a high quality ricotta to obtain the best result
Trivia
Semolina pudding is known as ‘Migliaccio’ in Italian, and seems to derive from millet, corn that was once used for many dishes of the poor working class. However, in this dessert millet is not used, rather semolina, which is why it is known simply as ‘semolina pudding’.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Semolina Sweet Migliaccio with Ricotta and Lemon Zest

One of the tastiest variations of Semolina Sweet Migliaccio is the one prepared with ricotta and lemon zest. This version enriches the dessert with the creaminess of ricotta, which pairs perfectly with the fresh and aromatic flavor of lemon. To make it, simply follow the basic recipe and, after cooking the semolina, incorporate the ricotta mixed with eggs and a pinch of sugar. The grated lemon zest will add a note of freshness, while the addition of a bit of cinnamon will give an enveloping aroma. This dessert is ideal for a delicious snack or as a dessert after a meal, perfect for those who want a touch of sweetness without overdoing it on fats.

Campanian Semolina Sweet Migliaccio

Semolina Sweet Migliaccio is a classic of the Campanian tradition, often prepared during the Carnival period. This regional variation highlights the richness of typical Campanian ingredients, such as lemon and ricotta. The traditional recipe calls for the use of semolina, milk, and butter, creating a dense and creamy base. Adding a bit of limoncello liquor further enhances the flavor, making the dessert even more characteristic. The preparation is simple and requires only a few steps, but the final result is a dessert that celebrates Campanian culinary tradition, perfect for holidays or a family snack.

Light Semolina Sweet Migliaccio without Butter

For those looking for a lighter version of Semolina Sweet Migliaccio, it can be made without butter. By replacing the butter with a bit of seed oil or Greek yogurt, you get a healthier yet still tasty dessert. This light version maintains the same creamy consistency, thanks to the use of ricotta and eggs. Additionally, the amount of sugar can be reduced or replaced with a natural sweetener to make the preparation even more diet-friendly. The result is a dessert that satisfies the sweet tooth without weighing you down, perfect for those following a controlled diet but who do not want to give up the pleasure of a dessert.

Benefits of Semolina Sweet Migliaccio: Calories and Nutrients

Semolina Sweet Migliaccio, made with ingredients like semolina, milk, and ricotta, offers several nutritional benefits. Semolina is a source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-term energy. Ricotta contributes high-quality protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Additionally, lemon provides vitamin C, crucial for the immune system. In terms of calories, a serving of Semolina Sweet Migliaccio is around 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dessert, when consumed in moderation, can be a balanced addition to a healthy diet.

Can Semolina Sweet Migliaccio be frozen?

The answer is yes, Semolina Sweet Migliaccio can be frozen without any issues. It is advisable to do so once it has completely cooled, and for better preservation, slice it and wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in airtight containers. This way, the freshness and consistency of the dessert are maintained. When you want to consume it, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature. It is important to note that once thawed, the Migliaccio should be consumed within a few days to ensure the best flavor and quality.