RecipesPuerto RicoTembleque de Batata

Tembleque de Batata

A delightful twist on the classic coconut tembleque, this version incorporates sweet potato for a richer flavor, creamier texture, and a beautiful orange hue. It's a smooth, chilled pudding perfect for dessert.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes + chilling time
Servings8
DifficultyMedium
Tembleque de Batata - Puerto Rico traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 2 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and cubed)
  • 2 13.5-oz cans Coconut milk
  • 1 12-oz can Evaporated milk
  • 1 cup Sugar(adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 cup Grated coconut(for garnish, optional)
  • 2 Cinnamon sticks(for garnish, optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

    💡 Tip: Ensure potatoes are completely cooked through for a smooth purée.
  2. 2

    Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a blender or food processor. Add about 1 cup of the coconut milk and blend until completely smooth. Set aside.

    💡 Tip: A very smooth purée is key to a silky tembleque.
  3. 3

    In a large saucepan, whisk together the remaining coconut milk, evaporated milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

    💡 Tip: Whisking cornstarch well prevents lumps.
  4. 4

    Add the sweet potato purée to the saucepan and whisk to combine.

    💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed before heating.
  5. 5

    Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until it thickens considerably and begins to bubble. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

    💡 Tip: Constant stirring is crucial to prevent sticking and scorching.
  6. 6

    Pour the thickened mixture into individual serving dishes, ramekins, or a lightly oiled mold. Let it cool slightly at room temperature.

    💡 Tip: Lightly oiling a mold will help with unmolding if desired.
  7. 7

    Cover the dishes or mold with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the tembleque to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm and chilled.

    💡 Tip: Chilling is essential for the tembleque to set properly.
  8. 8

    Before serving, garnish with grated coconut and cinnamon sticks, if desired. If using a mold, carefully unmold onto a serving platter.

    💡 Tip: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Taste the sweet potato before blending; if it's very sweet, you might want to reduce the sugar slightly.
  • For an even smoother texture, you can strain the sweet potato purée before adding it to the saucepan.
  • If you don't have cornstarch, you can use a similar amount of all-purpose flour, but cornstarch yields a silkier result.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a tablespoon of rum for an adult version.
  • Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger for a warmer spice note.
  • Top with fresh fruit like mango or pineapple slices.

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