Ginger Milk Pudding

Ginger Milk Pudding, also known as “Ginger Milk Curd,” is a delicate and aromatic dessert that originates from Guangdong, China. This dessert is celebrated for its simplicity and the soothing qualities of ginger combined with the creamy texture of milk. It’s perfect for a comforting treat or a light dessert after a meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful pudding.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh ginger juice (from about a 3-inch piece of ginger)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Extract Ginger Juice

1. Prepare the Ginger: Wash and peel a piece of fresh ginger. Grate the ginger using a fine grater or a microplane.
2. Extract Juice: Place the grated ginger into a piece of cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer and squeeze out the juice into a small bowl. You need about 2-3 tablespoons of ginger juice for this recipe. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk

1. Heat the Milk: Pour the whole milk into a small saucepan. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve. Heat the milk over medium heat until it reaches about 140-150°F (60-65°C). It should be hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.
2. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a slightly thicker pudding, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of cold milk and add it to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the milk thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine and Set

1. Mix Ginger Juice: Pour the ginger juice into a serving bowl. Stir the ginger juice to ensure it is evenly distributed at the bottom of the bowl.
2. Add Milk: Once the milk has reached the desired temperature, immediately pour it into the bowl with the ginger juice. Do not stir after pouring; let it sit undisturbed.

Step 4: Allow to Set

1. Set the Pudding: Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. The milk will react with the ginger juice and begin to set into a soft pudding-like texture.
2. Check for Set: Gently tilt the bowl to see if the milk has set. It should have a soft, jelly-like consistency. If it hasn’t set, let it sit for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: You can serve the Ginger Milk Pudding warm or chilled. For an added touch, garnish with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy the pudding as a light dessert or a soothing treat, appreciating the gentle heat of the ginger combined with the creamy texture of the milk.

Cooking Notes

• Ginger Quality: Use fresh, young ginger for the best flavor and most juice. Older ginger can be fibrous and less juicy.
• Milk Temperature: The temperature of the milk is crucial for setting the pudding. If the milk is too hot, it may not set properly. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.

Variations

• Spiced Ginger Milk Pudding: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the milk for an extra layer of flavor.
• Coconut Ginger Milk Pudding: Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Ginger Milk Pudding: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the ginger juice for a tangy variation.

Keto Version

To make a keto-friendly version of this pudding, use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of sugar. Ensure the milk is full-fat or use unsweetened almond milk for a lower-carb option.

Low Carb Version

For a lower-carb version, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. You can also experiment with using unsweetened plant-based milks, although the texture might differ slightly.

Ginger Milk Pudding is a classic dessert that beautifully marries the warming spice of ginger with the smooth, creamy texture of milk. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. This traditional Chinese dessert is perfect for those who enjoy gentle flavors and soothing textures. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert or a light, refreshing treat, Ginger Milk Pudding is a wonderful choice. Enjoy making and sharing this unique dessert with family and friends, and savor the delicate balance of flavors it offers.