Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oma's Heavenly Lemon Cream Pudding?
It is a cherished German comfort food that combines Cream of Wheat with a hint of lemon, creating a creamy pudding suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include milk, a pinch of salt, dry Cream of Wheat, eggs, and the juice of half a lemon.
How much milk is required?
You will need 2 cups of milk for this recipe.
What type of saucepan should be used?
A heavy-bottomed saucepan is recommended to help prevent the milk from scorching.
How do I prevent lumps in the pudding?
Whisk the dry Cream of Wheat vigorously with a wooden spoon as you slowly add it to the heated milk.
How long should the Cream of Wheat simmer?
It should simmer uncovered for approximately 2 1/2 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
How many eggs are used in this lemon pudding?
The recipe calls for 2 eggs, which should be beaten well before being added.
What does it mean to temper the eggs?
Tempering involves gradually mixing small amounts of the hot pudding into the beaten eggs to raise their temperature slowly, preventing them from curdling when added to the main pot.
How do I temper the eggs specifically for this recipe?
Take one tablespoon of the hot thickened porridge and mix it into the beaten eggs, then repeat with a second tablespoon before adding the mixture back to the saucepan.
When should the lemon juice be added?
The lemon juice should be stirred in gently after the saucepan has been removed from the heat.
Can this pudding be served warm?
Yes, it is delicious served warm, often topped with a pat of butter that melts into the cream.
Is it possible to serve this pudding chilled?
Yes, it can be chilled and served as a refreshing dessert.
What fruit toppings are recommended?
You can use fruit cocktail, pears, apricots, applesauce, or fresh berries as toppings.
What sweeteners can I add to the pudding?
Honey, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon sugar are excellent options for customizing the sweetness.
Is the salt mandatory?
No, the pinch of salt is optional according to your preference.
How much Cream of Wheat is needed?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of dry Cream of Wheat.
What is the purpose of the butter?
Two teaspoons of butter are suggested as a topping for a delicious finish while the pudding is warm.
Is this a traditional German recipe?
Yes, it is described as a traditional German treat and a cherished family recipe.
Can children enjoy this dish?
Absolutely, it is a comfort food enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
What gives the pudding its zing?
The juice of half a lemon provides an uplifting zing and brightness to the creamy base.
Should I stir the milk while heating?
Yes, you should stir the milk occasionally while heating over medium heat to prevent it from scorching.
How should the eggs be beaten?
The eggs should be cracked into a glass measuring cup and beaten well with a fork until fully blended.
Does the pudding thicken quickly?
Yes, after returning to a boil and simmering for about 2 1/2 minutes, the mixture will thicken to a creamy consistency.
Is the pudding served as a main course?
While it can be a breakfast dish, it is also served as a snack or a dessert.
What kind of spoon is recommended for whisking?
The instructions suggest using a wooden spoon for whisking and blending the Cream of Wheat.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While the specific serving count isn't listed, it uses 2 cups of milk and 1/3 cup of cereal, typically serving 2 people.
Can I use canned fruit?
Yes, the recipe suggests fruit cocktail, pears, or apricots which are often available canned.
What provides the vanilla flavor?
Vanilla sugar is listed as an optional topping to provide vanilla notes.
How do I achieve the 'heavenly' texture?
The combination of simmering the Cream of Wheat and carefully folding in tempered eggs creates the signature creamy texture.
Is the pudding simmered covered or uncovered?
The pudding should be simmered uncovered while stirring frequently.