Pumpkin and Banana Jelly Dessert

Pumpkin and Banana Jelly Dessert

Ingredients

• Pumpkin: 500 g (about 2½ cups), peeled and diced
• Bananas: 2 medium, mashed
• Sugar: 120 g (½ cup)
• Water: ½ cup (optional, for blending)
• Milk: 600 ml (2½ cups)
• Agar-Agar: 25 g (about 3 tablespoons)

Directions

• Cook the Pumpkin:
  • Peel and dice the pumpkin into small cubes.
  • Place the pumpkin in a pot with a little water and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, or until soft. Mash the cooked pumpkin or blend it into a smooth puree.
• Prepare the Banana Mixture:
  • Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth. Combine them with the pumpkin puree.
• Cook with Agar-Agar:
  • In a separate pot, combine the milk, sugar, and agar-agar. Stir well to dissolve.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to activate the agar-agar.
• Combine and Set:
  • Gradually mix the pumpkin-banana puree into the agar-agar milk mixture, ensuring it’s well combined.
  • Pour the mixture into a mold or serving glasses. Let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.
• Chill and Serve:
  • Allow the jelly to set in the fridge for at least 5 hours. Once set, slice or scoop and serve chilled.

5 Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
• Top with chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
• Add fresh fruit slices like berries or kiwi for a colorful presentation.
• Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

5 Cooking Tips

• Use ripe bananas for a naturally sweeter flavor.
• Stir constantly while cooking with agar-agar to prevent clumping.
• Blend the pumpkin puree until smooth for the best texture.
• Adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of your pumpkin and bananas.
• Ensure the agar-agar is fully dissolved and activated by simmering it for at least 5 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting eye health and immunity.
• Bananas: Provide potassium, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
• Agar-Agar: A plant-based gelatin alternative, high in fiber and low in calories.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Vegan: Substitute milk with plant-based milk.
• Gluten-Free: Yes
• Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.