Tembleque
A classic, silky coconut dessert infused with warm spices.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cans unsweetened coconut milk
- ⅔ cup vanilla sugar can be substituted with ½tsp vanilla extract and sugar. The vanilla is optional.
- ½ cup corn starch
- 3 anise
- 4 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 inch piece fresh peeled ginger
- pinch salt
- ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
Infuse the Coconut Milk
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add the coconut milk, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, and ginger.
- Bring the mixture just to a light simmer, then turn off the heat. Leave the pot on the warm burner for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Strain & Sweeten
- Remove and discard all spices.
- Return the coconut milk to low heat.
- Whisk in the sugar, salt, and cornstarch until completely sm
Thicken the Tembleque
- Continue cooking over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy and pudding-like.
Chill
- Pour into a lightly-greased serving dish or mold.
- Refrigerate for 3–4 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully set.
To Serve
- Run a knife gently around the edges of the dish.
- Invert onto a serving plate.
- Sprinkle generously with ground cinnamon before serving.
Notes
Notes on Including Your Child(ren)
Tembleque is a fantastic recipe to make with little chefs of all ages because it’s simple and sensory. Your little chef(s) can help measure out the spices and sprinkle the cinnamon on top. It’s a great way to let them experience the different aromas—cinnamon, anise, cloves—and to feel the pudding's soft texture once it’s set. Older chefs can help stir the coconut milk as it thickens—this teaches them patience and the magic of watching a liquid transform into a pudding. Teens can even take the lead on the whole recipe, practicing how to properly infuse flavors and set a dessert. They’ll gain confidence and a sweet sense of accomplishment.Nutrition
Calories: 328kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 16mgPotassium: 275mgFiber: 3gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 3IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 2mg
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