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Main Course Puddings
Shall we discuss puddings? Not the smooth, dessert sort, but rather firmer puddings, made with grains, that hold their shape. These puddings are very filling and flavorful, lightly sweetened, and make terrific entrées, especially for breakfast or brunch. Also, kids usually love puddings. All of them freeze well and, since they are delicious at any temperature, can be used in the lunch box. (Don't forget to use a frozen gel pack.) An additional bonus is that all of the following recipes require under 15 minutes prep time. You can even get away with mixing and baking in one nonstick baking pan, minimizing clean up.
All of these puddings are very nice served with any organic fresh fruit. I say organic because, in addition to all of the other benefits to the planet and yourself, organic fruit has richer, more full flavor and will add so much more to your meal. Below, I am suggesting some of my favorites. If you have the time, prepare a fresh fruit salad. Add your favorite brunch-time beverage, coffee, tea, champagne, etc. and you have a quick and elegant brunch.
Millet Pudding is made
with lots of milk, coconut and vanilla. It is sweetened with honey and the coconut forms a
delectably crunchy top. If you prefer, you can make the
Vegan Millet Pudding which is equally delicious. Tangerines, kiwis, apricots or mangos are a
very good choice with this.
Noodle Kugel is a whole wheat
noodle pudding, sweetened with applesauce and raisins and lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Lots of creamy custard surrounds the noodles. If serving for dinner, it would be well complimented
by your favorite steamed vegetable sprinkled with roasted almonds. In
Vegan Noodle Kugel, tofu is used in lieu of an egg custard
surrounding the noodles. I like this kugel with nectarines, peaches, apples or pears.
Bread Pudding is sweetened with date sugar and raisins and spiced with lots of cinnamon. Plenty of walnuts are added for crunch and contrasting flavor. Fresh strawberries, plums or oranges are good choices with this pudding.
Quartet Oatmeal Pudding dates, almonds, carob and cardamom harmonize deliciously! This pudding is very good served with plain yogurt on the side. Oranges, tangerines or a very flavorful apple such as Pink Lady, Fuji or Gravestein get my vote with this pudding.
By the way, speaking of that delightful first meal of the day, be sure to check back in May when I will feature recipes for Mother's Day breakfast and brunch.
Enjoy!
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