Puerto Rican Vegan Mango Pudding Celebrates Tropical Flavors and Heritage

Puerto Rican Vegan Mango Pudding: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dessert

In the heart of Puerto Rico, where the sun dips into the Caribbean Sea and paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, desserts are not just treats but celebrations of culture and flavor. Today, we’re blending the tropical sweetness of mangoes with the traditional essence of Puerto Rican cuisine to create a unique and delicious Vegan Mango Pudding.

The Cultural Significance

Puerto Rican desserts often reflect the island’s rich history and the blend of its indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. While traditional desserts like Tembleque (coconut pudding) are staples, incorporating fresh mangoes brings a vibrant and modern twist. Mangoes, with their juicy sweetness, are a perfect fit for the tropical flavors that define Puerto Rican cuisine.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangos, diced
• 1 can of full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight to separate the cream)
• 1/4 cup of coconut sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• Optional: Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mangoes:

   • Peel and dice 2 ripe mangos. You can use either the yellow ataulfo or the red mangos, but ensure they are fully ripened for the best flavor.

2. Blend the Mango Mixture:

   • In a blender, combine the diced mango, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Prepare the Coconut Cream:

   • Open the chilled can of coconut milk and scoop out the thick cream that has risen to the top. Reserve the remaining liquid for another use.

4. Combine and Cook:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the mango mixture and coconut cream. Whisk until well combined.
   • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water until it forms a smooth paste. Add this paste to the mango-coconut mixture and whisk vigorously.
   • Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Pour the pudding into individual ramekins or small bowls.
   • Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
   • Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Mango Varieties: While any ripe mango works, the small yellow ataulfo mangos have a creamy texture that enhances the pudding.
• Coconut Milk: Using full-fat coconut milk gives the pudding a rich and creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use a coconut beverage, but it will result in a jelly-like consistency[3].
• Garnish: Add a touch of Puerto Rican flair by garnishing with cinnamon, which is a common spice used in many traditional desserts.

Celebrating Puerto Rican Flavors

This Vegan Mango Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the vibrant flavors and cultural heritage of Puerto Rico. The coconut milk and mango blend perfectly to create a dish that is both refreshing and rich, making it a perfect treat for any time of the year.

In Puerto Rico, desserts are often simple yet full of flavor, reflecting the island’s love for natural ingredients and traditional cooking methods. This recipe honors that tradition while offering a modern, vegan twist that everyone can enjoy.

So, indulge in this delicious Puerto Rican Vegan Mango Pudding and let the tropical flavors transport you to the sun-kissed beaches and lush mango groves of this beautiful island.

1. Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials