Mini Pumpkin Bavaresi with Parmesan Sauce
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 5
This refined yet delightful appetizer combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the creamy richness of a Parmesan sauce, creating an unforgettable bite-sized treat. Ideal for gatherings, these mini bavaresi offer an elegant twist on traditional pumpkin dishes, perfect for the fall season or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The smooth texture of the pumpkin mousse pairs perfectly with the savory, tangy Parmesan sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Bavarese:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Delica Pumpkin | 550g |
| Water | 100g |
| Fresh Liquid Cream | 60g |
| Whole Milk | 20g |
| Egg Yolks | 36g |
| Gelatin Sheets | 10g |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
For the Parmesan Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Milk | 200g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 80g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Freshly Ground Black Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Thyme | To taste |
| Hazelnuts | To taste |
| Crushed Hazelnuts | To taste |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pumpkin:
Start by carefully cleaning the pumpkin, removing the seeds. Cut the pumpkin into small cubes and place them into a pan with a drizzle of olive oil. Add 100g of water to help soften the pumpkin. Cook the pumpkin on medium heat until tender, then transfer it into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth pumpkin puree.
2. Soak the Gelatin:
Place the gelatin sheets in cold water to soak, following the instructions on the package.
3. Prepare the English Cream:
In a small saucepan, heat the fresh cream over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Once the cream reaches 85ยฐC (185ยฐF), slowly pour it over the egg yolks while continuously stirring to temper them, creating a rich custard.
4. Combine the Pumpkin and Cream:
Add the pumpkin puree to the egg mixture and blend well. Pour in the milk, continuing to stir until you obtain a smooth mixture. Adjust seasoning with fine salt, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.
5. Set the Bavaresi:
Pour the pumpkin mixture into five metal molds. Cover each mold tightly with plastic wrap to avoid air exposure. Chill the molds in the fridge for several hours, or preferably overnight, until the bavaresi is fully set.
6. Prepare the Parmesan Sauce:
For the sauce, pour the whole milk into a saucepan and heat it gently. Once warm, whisk in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano until it has fully melted and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Season with freshly ground black pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t scorch.
7. Unmold the Bavaresi:
When ready to serve, bring some water to a simmer in a separate pan. Carefully dip the bottom of the bavaresi molds into the hot water, ensuring the water doesn’t seep inside the molds. After about 30 seconds, gently invert the molds onto a serving plate to release the bavaresi.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Spoon the Parmesan sauce over the top of the bavaresi. Finish with a garnish of freshly ground black pepper, a few sprigs of fresh thyme, and a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts for an extra crunch. The hazelnuts will add a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor to the smooth pumpkin mousse.
Tips for the Perfect Mini Pumpkin Bavaresi:
- Gelatin: Be sure to properly dissolve the gelatin sheets in cold water. This is key for achieving the right consistency for your bavaresi.
- Pumpkin Choice: The Delica pumpkin is ideal due to its creamy texture and natural sweetness, but any other pumpkin variety will work well.
- Parmesan Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens, ensuring it doesnโt become too thick or curdle.
This delightful dish can be prepared a day in advance, giving you plenty of time to focus on other elements of your meal. The Mini Pumpkin Bavaresi with Parmesan Sauce makes for a stunning appetizer that will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
The following values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
With this indulgent yet light appetizer, youโll not only showcase your culinary skills but also delight your guests with a dish that balances creamy, savory, and slightly nutty flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy fall dinner or an elegant gathering, these mini pumpkin bavaresi will undoubtedly steal the show!
