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Real Sago Pudding

This comforting dessert brings together tender sago pearls and creamy coconut milk, reviving cherished memories and creating new ones.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: Asian, Southeast Asian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.8 oz true sago pearls Look for high-quality sago at Asian grocery stores or online.
  • 1.5 cups water Use fresh, filtered water. Use 2 cups if using pandan leaf.
  • 3 tablespoons sugar Feel free to substitute with organic cane sugar or raw sugar for a richer flavor.
  • 0.5 pieces pandan leaf (optional) Adds fragrance and vibrant color; use fresh if possible.
  • 0.5 cup young coconut meat, julienned (optional) Fresh young coconut provides great texture.
  • 0.5 cup coconut milk Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for creaminess.
  • 1/8 teaspoon table salt Helps balance the sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using pandan, tie the leaf into a knot and add it to 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil for about 3 minutes, then remove the pandan leaf but keep the water boiling. If not using pandan, simply boil 1 1/2 cups of water.
  2. Gradually sprinkle the sago pearls into the boiling water while stirring constantly. Cook for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until most pearls become translucent. If it appears too thick, add more water a teaspoon at a time.
Sweetening
  1. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar and young coconut meat until completely dissolved.
Coconut Milk Preparation
  1. In another pot, combine the coconut milk and salt, and bring to a gentle simmer without boiling vigorously to prevent curdling.
Serving
  1. Ladle the warm sago pudding into serving bowls and drizzle generously with the salted coconut milk. Top with additional young coconut meat or fresh fruits, if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently with a splash of coconut milk if needed. Ideal for tropical summer days or festive gatherings.