Carrot Custard Pudding Recipe
Carrot Custard Pudding is a delightful and indulgent Indian dessert that combines the natural sweetness and color of carrots with the creamy richness of custard. This simple yet satisfying pudding is perfect for any occasion and is particularly well-suited for a cozy family gathering or as a sweet end to a festive meal. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation, yet the result is a dish full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 3 cups + 6 tbsp |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, medium-sized |
| Custard Powder | 3 tbsp |
| Sugar | 3 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Calcium | 180mg |
| Iron | 0.6mg |
(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes)
Preparation Time:
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Servings:
| Number of Servings| 3 servings |
Cuisine:
- Indian
Course:
- Dessert
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Carrot:
Start by washing the carrot thoroughly. Peel the skin and grate it finely using a box grater or food processor. Set the grated carrot aside for later. -
Make the Custard Mixture:
In a small bowl, take 3 tablespoons of custard powder. Add 6 tablespoons of milk and mix well to form a smooth, lump-free custard mixture. Set aside this mixture to thicken slightly while you prepare the rest of the pudding. -
Cook the Carrots in Milk:
In a large pan, bring 3 cups of milk to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and add the grated carrots into the milk. Stir the mixture well to combine the carrots and milk. -
Cook Until Soft:
Let the grated carrots cook in the milk for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The carrots should soften and infuse the milk with their natural sweetness and color. -
Add Sugar and Custard Mixture:
After the carrots have softened, add 3 tablespoons of sugar to the pan. Stir to dissolve the sugar completely. Then, gradually add the custard mixture that you prepared earlier, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring the pudding over medium heat. -
Thicken the Pudding:
Continue to cook the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly. The pudding should begin to thicken as the custard powder blends with the milk and carrots. Once it reaches a creamy consistency, turn off the heat. -
Cool and Chill:
Allow the pudding to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least one hour before serving. This helps the pudding to set and develop its full flavor. -
Serve and Garnish:
Once chilled, serve the carrot custard pudding in individual bowls. Garnish with chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions:
This Carrot Custard Pudding pairs wonderfully as a sweet ending to any meal. It is particularly delicious when served after a traditional Indian meal of Aloo Ki Sabzi, Boondi Ka Raita, and Puri. The creamy, comforting pudding perfectly complements the spicy and savory flavors of the main course.
Tips & Variations:
-
Nuts and Dried Fruit: Feel free to garnish the pudding with a variety of nuts such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
-
Flavor Variations: For a subtle twist, add a few drops of rose water or a pinch of cardamom powder to the pudding during the cooking process. These aromatic additions will elevate the flavor and fragrance of the dish.
-
Vegan Version: If you prefer a vegan option, use plant-based milk such as almond milk or coconut milk and substitute the sugar with jaggery or maple syrup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this carrot custard pudding can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.
- Naturally Sweet: The sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the addition of sugar, giving you a dessert that isn’t overly sugary but still satisfies your sweet tooth.
- Healthy Dessert: The combination of milk and carrots offers a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and fiber, making this dessert not only indulgent but nutritious too.
Enjoy this delightful Carrot Custard Pudding as a comforting dessert that will leave you craving for more! Whether for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to please all ages.
