Old-Fashioned Tapioca Custard Delight
This delightful tapioca custard pudding harks back to the 1942 classic recipe from the 'Foods, Nutrition and Home Management Manual' published by the Government of the Province of British Columbia. A comforting dessert characterized by its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, this custard pudding is perfect for any occasion. The pearl tapioca lends a unique, chewy quality that sets it apart from regular puddings, creating a nostalgic experience for all who savor it. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this classic dessert can evoke cherished memories while offering a satisfying conclusion to a family meal. For a quicker option, see the note at the end of the recipe to use quick-cooking tapioca instead.
N/A
Servings
100
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pearl tapioca
1/4 cup (soaked in cold water)
Milk
1 1/2 cups (not specified)
Eggs
2 (separated into yolks and whites)
White sugar
1/3 cup (not specified)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (not specified)
Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (not specified)
Instructions
1
Start by soaking the pearl tapioca in enough cold water to cover, allowing it to absorb the water for about 30 minutes.
2
In a double boiler, combine the soaked tapioca with 1 1/2 cups of milk. Cook this mixture over simmering water, stirring occasionally, until the tapioca becomes transparent, which should take approximately 30-40 minutes.
3
While the tapioca is cooking, beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually mix in the sugar and salt, ensuring a smooth consistency.
4
Once the tapioca is ready, take a small portion of the hot tapioca mixture and gently mix it into the egg yolk mixture to temper the eggs. Then return the combined mixture to the double boiler.
5
Continue cooking in the double boiler for an additional 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent curdling of the eggs.
6
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then carefully fold them into the tapioca custard mixture to maintain lightness.
7
Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. Serve the tapioca custard warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Nutrition Information
2.5
Fat
16.25
Carbs
3
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Old-Fashioned Tapioca Custard Delight?
It is a comforting, creamy dessert characterized by its chewy pearl tapioca and subtle sweetness, based on a classic 1942 recipe.
Where does this recipe originate?
This recipe is from the 1942 'Foods, Nutrition and Home Management Manual' published by the Government of the Province of British Columbia.
How long should I soak the pearl tapioca?
The pearl tapioca should be soaked in enough cold water to cover it for about 30 minutes.
What equipment is recommended for cooking the tapioca?
A double boiler is recommended for cooking the tapioca and milk mixture over simmering water.
How long does it take for pearl tapioca to become transparent?
It typically takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes of cooking for the pearl tapioca to become transparent.
How are the eggs prepared for this recipe?
The eggs should be separated into yolks and whites; yolks are mixed with sugar and salt, while whites are whipped to stiff peaks.
What is the process for tempering the eggs?
Gently mix a small portion of the hot tapioca mixture into the beaten egg yolks before returning the whole combined mixture to the double boiler.
Why do you need to temper the egg yolks?
Tempering the eggs prevents them from curdling or scrambling when they are introduced to the hot custard base.
How long do you cook the custard after adding the egg mixture?
The mixture should be cooked in the double boiler for an additional 3 minutes after the eggs are incorporated.
Should the custard be stirred while cooking?
Yes, you should stir occasionally during the first stage and constantly for the 3 minutes after adding the eggs to prevent curdling.
When should the egg whites be added?
After the custard is removed from heat and cooled slightly, the stiffly whipped egg whites are carefully folded in.
What is the role of egg whites in this custard?
Whipping and folding in the egg whites provides the custard with a unique lightness and airy texture.
When should vanilla extract be added?
The vanilla extract is stirred in at the very end of the process, after the egg whites have been folded in.
Can this tapioca custard be served warm?
Yes, this dessert can be enjoyed warm immediately after preparation.
Can I serve the tapioca custard chilled?
Yes, it can be served chilled according to your preference.
Is there a faster alternative to pearl tapioca?
Yes, the recipe notes that you can use quick-cooking tapioca for a faster version of the dessert.
What is the calorie count for this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 100 calories.
How much fat is in a serving of this custard?
There are 2.5 grams of fat per serving.
What are the carbohydrates in this dessert?
One serving provides approximately 16.25 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in the tapioca custard?
This dessert provides 3 grams of protein per serving.
How much milk is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of milk.
How much sugar is in the custard?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of white sugar.
What amount of pearl tapioca is needed?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of pearl tapioca.
Is salt used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of salt is included in the mixture.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe uses 2 eggs, which are separated for different stages of the cooking process.
What makes pearl tapioca different from regular puddings?
Pearl tapioca creates a unique, chewy quality that sets it apart from the smoother texture of standard puddings.
How much vanilla extract is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a dessert, specifically a custard or pudding.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 total ingredients: pearl tapioca, milk, eggs, white sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
Is this considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a nostalgic and comforting dessert perfect for concluding a family meal.