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Mixed fruit custard is one of the most versatile, colourful and creamy desserts, combining the richness of custard with fresh fruits.
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It can be one of the most sought-after for parties or other special functions due to its attractive colour and refreshing taste. Here is a very simple recipe on how to make this yummy dessert at home.
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First of all you will need all the ingredients. You will require custard powder and 2 tablespoons of it. Custard powder is found in any market, and you may add vanilla essence to make it have a normal flavour.
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Then you will require 2 cups of milk. This is your ingredient making the base of custard; it is creamy and rich. Also, you will need 4 tablespoons of sugar to make it sweet for your taste, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence for increased flavour.
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Begin by heating the milk to medium heat in a saucepan. It is always a good practice to make warm milk by slowly breaking down the custard powder in a small quantity of chilled milk in another bowl.
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In this way, there will be no lumps of custard when it thickens. Add sugar to the hot milk and mix it well until all sugar is dissolved. As you add the custard mix gradually to the milk, stir constantly. It also helps avoid lumps forming in custard, creating an even finish in the final product.
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Now it should be cooked on low heat with constant stirring until it thickens. This should take 5 to 7 minutes at low heat.
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Remove the saucepan from heat and add vanilla essence to the custard.
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When the custard has reached room temperature, put it in the refrigerator and let it chill. Chilling allows the custard to flavour and helps it to smoothen so that it can be paired well with fresh fruits.
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Allow the custard to cool down.
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Meanwhile, you can chop all fruits to present them as a dessert.
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You can choose bright combinations of colours to make it more attractive to serve. You can begin with 1 cup of chopped apples, peeled and cut up into smaller pieces, then add half a cup of chopped guava for its taste and texture as well.
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To add a sweet and crunchy taste, include 1 cup of pomegranate seeds.
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Add a tropical touch with 1 cup of juicy, aromatic mangoes peeled and chopped. Also, add 1 cup of grapes, either halved or whole; there will be a refreshing crunchy bite to the custard.
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Add some variety in the mix with nuts such as ¼ cup of cashews, walnuts, and pistachios finely chopped for a good crunch. For added sweetness, use ¼ cup of chopped dates 3 tablespoons of sultanas (kishmish), and 3 tablespoons of tutti frutti for both colour and flavour.
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Lastly, add 2 tablespoons of chopped cherries towards the end for colour and sweetness. The fruit and nut medley would be just the right accompaniment to the silky custard.
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Once the custard has chilled, take it out of the fridge. Place all the prepared fruits, nuts, and dried fruits in a large serving bowl and gently fold into the chilled custard.
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Mix well yet with very gentle care so as not to break the fruits apart.
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You can even dust with ¼ cup of powdered sugar just before serving for some extra sweetness. This will give not only flavour but also beauty to the dish.
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Mixed fruit custard can be served in small cups for individual portions and in one large bowl for people to serve themselves from. The bright colour against the creamy background of custard makes it an inviting and appetising treat.