Vegan Malva Pudding with a Puerto Rican Twist
Malva pudding, a beloved South African dessert, can be transformed into a delightful Puerto Rican vegan treat by incorporating some of the island’s vibrant flavors. Here’s how you can give this classic dessert a unique and delicious Puerto Rican vegan twist.
The Cultural Significance
Malva pudding, with its rich, sticky, and caramel-like sauce, is a staple in South African cuisine. By infusing it with Puerto Rican flavors, we blend the warmth and hospitality of both cultures. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge in a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds.
Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ¾ cup plant-based milk (such as coconut or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons smooth apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- ½ cup applesauce
For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup coconut sugar
- 1 cup canned full-fat coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for added depth (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Pudding:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray a 9×9 square baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour into a mixing bowl and add the coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Create the Batter: Add the white vinegar to the plant-based milk and let it curdle. Then, add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with the applesauce, apricot jam, and melted coconut oil. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
- Bake the Pudding: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.
- Combine Sugar and Coconut Cream: Add the coconut sugar and full-fat coconut cream to the saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers, stirring constantly.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the sauce from the heat and add the vanilla extract. If desired, add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Assembling the Pudding:
- Poke Holes: Once the pudding is out of the oven, poke holes all over it with a toothpick.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the warm sauce evenly over the pudding, making sure it distributes across the entire surface.
- Let it Sink In: Allow the sauce to sink into the pudding before cutting it into squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your vegan Malva pudding warm, topped with vegan whipped cream or a scoop of vegan ice cream. The combination of the sticky, caramel-like sauce and the soft, spongy pudding is absolutely divine.
Tips and Variations
- Use Different Non-Dairy Milks: You can experiment with different plant-based milks like almond or oat milk, though coconut milk adds a rich and creamy texture.
- Add a Puerto Rican Touch: While the traditional recipe is delicious, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a subtle Puerto Rican flair.
- Baking Time: If using an 8×8 square dish, the baking time may be slightly longer.
Conclusion
This vegan Malva pudding with a Puerto Rican twist is a perfect blend of cultures and flavors. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also celebrates the rich culinary heritage of both South Africa and Puerto Rico. Enjoy this delightful treat with your loved ones and experience the warmth and hospitality of these vibrant cultures.
- Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials