Tapioca Mango Pudding Recipe

Tapioca Mango Pudding is a delightful, creamy dessert that brings together the rich texture of tapioca pearls with the tropical sweetness of mango. This classic treat is beloved for its simplicity and the wonderful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just craving something sweet, this dessert will surely bring back nostalgic memories of home-cooked goodness. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients!

Ingredients

To make this indulgent pudding, you will need:

• ½ cup small tapioca pearls
• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup coconut milk (or substitute with whole milk)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups water (for cooking tapioca)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tapioca Pearls

Begin by soaking the tapioca pearls in water for at least 30 minutes to soften them. This step ensures that they cook evenly and achieve the perfect texture. Once soaked, drain the excess water.

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked tapioca pearls and lower the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the pearls from sticking together. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the tapioca pearls turn translucent. Once they are cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Base

While the tapioca is cooking, take your ripe mangoes and peel them. Cut the mango flesh into small cubes, setting a portion aside for garnishing later. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can puree one of the mangoes in a blender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a separate saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer. Add in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Once the milk mixture is ready, gently fold in the cooked tapioca pearls and mango cubes. Stir well to ensure the tapioca is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pudding from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. For a chilled dessert, refrigerate the pudding for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and thicken.

When ready to serve, divide the pudding into individual bowls. Top each serving with the reserved mango cubes for a burst of fresh flavor and a vibrant visual contrast. If you want to add an extra layer of richness, drizzle a bit more condensed milk on top of each bowl.

Tips for the Perfect Tapioca Mango Pudding

1. Choosing the Right Mangoes: The key to a delicious tapioca mango pudding is the quality of the mangoes. Look for ripe, juicy mangoes that have a slight give when pressed. Varieties like Ataulfo or Haden mangoes work particularly well for this recipe due to their sweetness and creamy texture.

2. Coconut Milk Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute coconut milk with regular whole milk or even almond milk. However, coconut milk adds a tropical richness that complements the mangoes beautifully.

3. Adjusting Sweetness: The level of sweetness in this pudding can be adjusted according to your preference. Taste the mixture as you go and add more or less sugar depending on the sweetness of your mangoes.

4. Texture Matters: For those who enjoy a pudding with more bite, consider using larger tapioca pearls. However, small tapioca pearls tend to blend better with the smoothness of the mango puree, creating a more uniform texture.

5. Chilling Time: Allowing the pudding to chill in the fridge enhances the flavors and gives the dessert a firmer consistency. If you’re in a hurry, you can serve it warm, but the chilled version has a more refreshing appeal.

Health Benefits

Tapioca Mango Pudding not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some health benefits. Tapioca pearls are a good source of carbohydrates, making this dessert a great energy booster. Mangoes are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C and A, which support immune health and good vision. If you opt for coconut milk, you’ll be adding some healthy fats to your diet, which can support heart health and improve your skin.

A Nostalgic Treat

For many people, this pudding brings back memories of family gatherings and homemade meals. It’s a dessert that can easily be passed down through generations, just like it was in your family. Whether you’re recreating a dish from your childhood or trying something new, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy tropical flavors year-round.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pudding, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will continue to thicken as it chills, so you may want to stir in a splash of milk before serving to loosen it up. It’s best enjoyed within a couple of days when the mangoes are still fresh and vibrant.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this pudding! Here are a few variations to try:

• Mango Coconut Tapioca Pudding: Increase the coconut flavor by using coconut cream instead of coconut milk.
• Tropical Tapioca Delight: Add diced pineapples or papaya for a multi-fruit pudding.
• Mango Sago Soup: Serve this dessert as a chilled soup by adding more coconut milk or water for a thinner consistency. This is perfect for hot summer days.

Conclusion

Tapioca Mango Pudding is a delightful fusion of chewy tapioca pearls and the tropical sweetness of mangoes. This simple yet elegant dessert can be made for any occasion, offering both nostalgic flavors and a creamy texture that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a special family gathering or just indulging in a treat at home, this pudding is sure to bring smiles to the table.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of this comforting pudding in no time. Enjoy!