Classic Tapioca Pudding Recipe

Classic Tapioca Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca (not instant)
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Soak the tapioca: In a large bowl, soak the tapioca pearls in 2 cups of water overnight. Drain the water after soaking.
2. Cook the tapioca: Combine the soaked tapioca, milk, and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; cook and stir until the tapioca pearls become translucent and the mixture thickens (about 15 to 20 minutes).
3. Temper the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together. Gradually whisk in about a cup of the hot tapioca mixture into the eggs to temper them. This prevents the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.
4. Combine and thicken: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the tapioca. Increase heat to medium and cook, stirring constantly, until the pudding comes to a gentle boil. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens further.
5. Add flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Cool and serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before serving warm, or chill in the refrigerator if you prefer to serve it cold.

Tapioca pudding can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy making this sweet treat!