Apple Semolina Dessert with Toasted Meringue

Postre de Sémola y Manzana (Semolina and Apple Dessert)

Prepare yourself for a delightful fusion of creamy semolina and sweet apples, all topped with a soft, golden meringue. This classic Latin American dessert offers a balance of textures and flavors, making it a comforting yet elegant treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Apples

1. Peel and Grate the Apples: Begin by peeling the apples and then grate them finely using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, transfer the apple mixture into a bowl.
2. Mix with Sugar and Cinnamon: Add 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the grated apples. Stir well, ensuring the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture rest for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the apples to release some of their juices.

Step 2: Cooking the Apples

1. Cook the Apple Mixture: In a medium-sized skillet, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the apple mixture and cook for about 4 minutes until the apples soften and their liquid reduces slightly.
2. Optional Thickening: If the apple mixture becomes too watery, you can thicken it by adding a small amount of cornstarch (cornflour). Stir continuously until the mixture reaches your desired thickness. Once done, set the apples aside to cool.

Step 3: Preparing the Semolina Base

1. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, heat 2 1/2 cups of milk over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup of sugar and stir until dissolved. Bring the milk to a gentle boil.
2. Add the Semolina: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in 3/4 cup of semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking the semolina mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens into a smooth, porridge-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cool the Semolina: Remove from heat and pour the semolina mixture into a serving dish or baking dish, spreading it evenly to form a base layer. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Making the Meringue

1. Whisk the Egg Whites: In a large bowl, lightly whisk 3 egg whites. Then, transfer the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler or bain-marie method) and add 1 cup of sugar.
2. Heat and Beat: Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the egg whites and sugar over the heat until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. This process will take around 5-7 minutes. The result should be a firm meringue that holds its shape.

Step 5: Assembling the Dessert

1. Layer the Apples: Once the semolina base has cooled, spread the cooked apples over the top, ensuring an even layer.
2. Top with Meringue: Gently spoon the prepared meringue over the apple layer. Spread it evenly, covering the apples completely.

Step 6: Finishing Touch (Optional)

1. Torch the Meringue: For a beautiful, golden finish, use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the top of the meringue. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the dessert under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Tips for Success

• Apples: Green apples like Granny Smith are ideal for this recipe due to their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet meringue and semolina. However, you can substitute with other apple varieties based on your preference.
• Semolina Consistency: The key to a smooth semolina base is to whisk constantly as you add the semolina to the hot milk. This prevents lumps and ensures a creamy texture.
• Meringue Stability: Make sure your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of grease before whipping the egg whites. Any trace of fat can prevent the whites from whipping up properly.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Fruit Variations: While apples are traditional, this dessert can also be made with pears, peaches, or berries. Just follow the same steps for cooking the fruit.
• Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the semolina mixture for extra flavor.
• Serve Chilled: For a refreshing treat, refrigerate the assembled dessert for an hour or two before serving. The contrast between the cool, creamy base and the light meringue is delightful.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6-8)

This Postre de Sémola y Manzana is the perfect balance of fruitiness and creaminess, with a topping of fluffy meringue to create a light, airy finish. Ideal for family gatherings or a delightful end to any meal, this dessert is sure to impress!