10-Ingredient Mango Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

1. Ripe Mangoes – 3 large
2. Condensed Milk – 1 cup
3. Heavy Cream – 1 cup
4. Whole Milk – 1 cup
5. Sugar – 1/4 cup (adjust based on mango sweetness)
6. Gelatin Powder – 3 tablespoons (or agar-agar for a vegetarian version)
7. Water – 1/2 cup
8. Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon
9. Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
10. Salt – a pinch

Equipment:

• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)
• Serving glasses or bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mango Puree:

• Select Ripe Mangoes: Choose ripe, fragrant mangoes. Varieties like Alphonso or Ataulfo are ideal due to their sweetness and rich flavor.
• Peel and Chop: Peel the mangoes and cut the flesh away from the pit. Dice the mango flesh into small pieces.
• Blend: Place the mango pieces into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. You should have about 2 1/2 to 3 cups of mango puree. If the puree is fibrous, you can strain it through a fine mesh strainer to achieve a smoother texture.

2. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:

• Dissolve Gelatin: In a small bowl, combine the gelatin powder with 1/2 cup of water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to bloom. This process allows the gelatin to absorb the water and expand.
• Heat the Gelatin: After blooming, heat the gelatin mixture gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until completely dissolved. Be careful not to let it boil. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cream Mixture:

• Combine Dairy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed milk, heavy cream, and whole milk. Stir well to blend these ingredients together.
• Add Sugar: Add 1/4 cup of sugar to the dairy mixture. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your mangoes.
• Flavoring: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. The lemon juice adds a slight tang that enhances the mango flavor, while the vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor.

4. Combine Mango and Cream Mixtures:

• Mix Mango and Dairy: Gradually pour the mango puree into the dairy mixture, stirring constantly to ensure an even blend.
• Add Gelatin: Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the mango and cream mixture, stirring continuously to ensure even distribution. Make sure the gelatin is fully incorporated to avoid any lumps.

5. Set the Pudding:

• Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into serving glasses or bowls. You can use individual serving dishes or a single large dish, depending on your preference.
• Chill: Refrigerate the pudding for at least 4-6 hours, or until fully set. The gelatin will firm up, giving the pudding its characteristic texture.

6. Serve:

• Garnish (Optional): Before serving, you can garnish the pudding with fresh mango slices, mint leaves, or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair and flavor.
• Enjoy: Serve the mango pudding chilled. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dessert, perfect for warm weather or any time you crave a fruity treat.

Tips and Variations:

• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar based on your preference and the natural sweetness of the mangoes.
• Alternative Sweeteners: For a healthier option, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan version, use agar-agar instead of gelatin, replace condensed milk with coconut milk, and use plant-based cream and milk. Dissolve agar-agar in water as per package instructions and follow the same steps.
• Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some diced mango pieces and fold them into the mixture before chilling.
• Serving Ideas: This pudding pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 40g

Detailed Insights:

Mango Selection and Preparation:

The quality of mangoes greatly affects the final flavor of the pudding. Ensure your mangoes are ripe, aromatic, and free from blemishes. The sweetness of the mangoes should be balanced with a slight tartness for a well-rounded flavor. When blending the mangoes, achieving a smooth puree is crucial. Straining the puree can remove any fibrous parts, resulting in a velvety texture.

Dairy and Cream Mixture:

The combination of condensed milk, heavy cream, and whole milk provides a rich and creamy base for the pudding. Condensed milk adds sweetness and thickness, heavy cream contributes to the creamy texture, and whole milk balances the richness. The sugar amount can be adjusted according to the sweetness of the mangoes. Adding lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the pudding from becoming overly sweet.

Gelatin Preparation:

Properly blooming and dissolving the gelatin ensures that the pudding sets correctly. Blooming allows the gelatin granules to absorb water and expand, while gentle heating dissolves them completely. It’s important to stir continuously to avoid any lumps, which can affect the pudding’s texture.

Combining and Setting:

When combining the mango puree with the dairy mixture, do so gradually to ensure an even blend. Adding the gelatin slowly while stirring continuously helps to distribute it evenly throughout the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent texture in the final pudding. Chilling the pudding for the recommended time allows it to set properly.

Garnishing and Serving:

Garnishing adds visual appeal and additional flavors to the pudding. Fresh mango slices, mint leaves, or whipped cream can enhance the presentation and taste. Serving the pudding chilled intensifies the refreshing and creamy texture, making it a perfect dessert for warm days.

Variations and Enhancements:

Coconut Mango Pudding:

• Replace condensed milk with coconut milk.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Add shredded coconut as a garnish for an extra tropical twist.

Spiced Mango Pudding:

• Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the dairy mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or ground cloves.

Mango and Berry Pudding:

• Fold in fresh or frozen berries (like raspberries or blueberries) before chilling.
• Top with a berry compote or sauce for added tartness and color contrast.

Mango Cheesecake Pudding:

• Mix in 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese to the dairy mixture for a cheesecake-like texture.
• Add a graham cracker crumb base in the serving glasses for a layered dessert.

Final Thoughts:

This 10-ingredient mango pudding is an elegant and flavorful dessert that showcases the tropical allure of ripe mangoes. By following these detailed steps, you can create a creamy, smooth, and delightful pudding that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this luxurious treat as a perfect ending to any meal, savoring the blend of creamy dairy and fresh mango in every bite