Are you craving something sweet and creamy? Look no further than the traditional Puerto Rican dessert, Tembleque! This coconut milk-based dessert is made with cornstarch and has a smooth, pudding-like texture. And the best part? One serving of 1 oz Tembleque is only 79 calories.

Not only is Tembleque delicious, but it also packs some nutritional value. Coconut milk is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. And with only 6 grams of sugar per serving, Tembleque is a healthier alternative to many other desserts.

In this article, we'll provide an easy and quick Tembleque recipe, share how to serve and store Tembleque, and even give some variations of the traditional recipe to mix it up.

Tembleque: A Traditional Puerto Rican Dessert

Tembleque has been a staple dessert in Puerto Rican cuisine for generations. Its name comes from the Spanish word for 'wobbly' or 'shaky', which describes its characteristic texture. The dessert has roots in both Spanish and indigenous Taino cultures, and was traditionally prepared using cornstarch and coconut milk. Today, Tembleque remains a popular dessert across Puerto Rico and can often be found at family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Its easy preparation and unique flavor make it a beloved treat for many.

Easy and Quick Tembleque Recipe

Making Tembleque is incredibly easy and requires only a handful of ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• Cinnamon or coconut flakes for topping (optional)

To make Tembleque, simply mix the cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. Gradually add in the coconut milk, whisking until fully combined. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes pudding-like in texture. Pour the mixture into a mold or serving dish and allow it to cool to room temperature. Finally, chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Top with cinnamon or coconut flakes, if desired.

The Creamy and Sweet Tembleque Dessert

What sets Tembleque apart from other desserts is its rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness. The coconut milk gives it a distinct tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of the cornstarch. While the dessert may seem simple, its unique blend of flavors and textures make it a true treat for the tastebuds. Plus, its light and refreshing taste make it the perfect end to any meal.

How to Serve Tembleque?

Tembleque is best served cold and can be enjoyed on its own or topped with your favorite toppings such as cinnamon, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit. It also pairs well with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. To store Tembleque, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you're making it ahead of time, it can also be frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Healthy Nutritional Value of Tembleque

While Tembleque is certainly a dessert, it does offer some nutritional value thanks to its coconut milk base. Coconut milk is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Plus, at only 79 calories per serving, Tembleque is a healthier alternative to many other desserts. It also has a relatively low sugar content, with only 6 grams per serving.

Tembleque: Perfect for Parties and Gatherings

If you're looking for a dessert that's easy to make and can feed a crowd, Tembleque is the perfect choice. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a great option for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Plus, its unique texture and flavor are sure to impress your guests. And with the option to add different toppings or flavors, you can customize it to fit any occasion.

Tips for Making Perfect Tembleque Every Time

• Whisk the coconut milk and cornstarch together until fully combined to avoid lumps.
• Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat to prevent burning or sticking.
• Once the mixture starts to thicken, reduce the heat to avoid overcooking.
• Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid while it cools to prevent a skin from forming on top.
• Chill the Tembleque in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow it to fully set.

Variations of Tembleque Recipe

While the classic Tembleque recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to mix up the flavor and texture of this traditional dessert. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Chocolate Tembleque: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to the mixture for a rich and decadent dessert.
• Vanilla Tembleque: Swap out the coconut milk for regular milk and add vanilla extract for a milder flavor.
• Fruit Tembleque: Top the dessert with fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or mango for a refreshing twist.

A Twist to Tembleque: Chocolate and Vanilla Flavor

Looking to mix up the flavor of traditional Tembleque? Try this recipe for a chocolate and vanilla twist on the classic dessert.

• 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup of chocolate chips

Follow the same steps as the classic Tembleque recipe, but add the vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips to the mixture before cooking. Once the mixture thickens and becomes pudding-like in texture, pour it into a mold or serving dish and allow it to cool to room temperature. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Tembleque: A Perfect Dessert for Warm Weather

With its light and refreshing taste, Tembleque is the perfect dessert for warm weather. Its creamy texture and tropical flavor make it a great choice for picnics, BBQs, and other outdoor gatherings. Plus, its easy preparation and ability to be made ahead of time make it a convenient dessert option for busy summer days.