Chirimoya Alegre is a beloved traditional dessert from Chile, showcasing the delightful flavor of chirimoya, a tropical fruit native to the Andean highlands of South America. This sweet and creamy treat is often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, offering a unique combination of flavors reminiscent of vanilla, banana, and pineapple. Chirimoya Alegre is not only a delicious dessert but also a nutritious one, rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, contributing to various health benefits.
Ingredients:
- 2 chirimoya fruits
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream and chopped nuts for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chirimoya: Cut the chirimoya fruit in half, remove the seeds and skin. Place the pulp in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Create the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Cook the Mixture: Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the chirimoya pulp and lemon juice. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Cool and Chill: Remove the cinnamon stick and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Divide the mixture into serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve: Serve with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
Notes:
- Chirimoya Alegre can also be used as a filling for pies or cakes.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 chirimoya fruits
Calories: Approximately 300 calories
Carbohydrates: 78 grams
Protein: 6 grams
Fat: 1 gram
Sodium: 10 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: High in vitamin C, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6)
Minerals: Potassium, magnesium, iron
Nutritional benefit: Chirimoya is rich in antioxidants, promotes digestive health, boosts the immune system, and helps lower blood pressure.
2. 1 cup sugar
Calories: Approximately 774 calories
Carbohydrates: 200 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: None
Minerals: None
Nutritional benefit: Provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients.
3. 1 cup water
Calories: 0 calories
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: None
Minerals: None
Nutritional benefit: Essential for hydration and various bodily functions.
4. 1 cinnamon stick
Calories: Approximately 6 calories
Carbohydrates: 2 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamins A, C, and B6
Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium
Nutritional benefit: Cinnamon has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
5. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Calories: Approximately 4 calories
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: High in vitamin C
Minerals: Small amounts of potassium and calcium
Nutritional benefit: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and aids in digestion.
6. Whipped cream (optional)
Calories: Approximately 52 calories per tablespoon
Carbohydrates: 1 gram per tablespoon
Protein: 0 grams per tablespoon
Fat: 5 grams per tablespoon
Sodium: 5 milligrams per tablespoon
Cholesterol: 17 milligrams per tablespoon
Vitamins: Small amounts of vitamins A and D
Minerals: Calcium
Nutritional benefit: Adds creaminess and richness to desserts, though high in fat and should be consumed in moderation.
7. Chopped nuts (optional)
Calories: Approximately 50-100 calories per tablespoon (varies by type of nut)
Carbohydrates: 1-5 grams per tablespoon (varies by type of nut)
Protein: 1-3 grams per tablespoon (varies by type of nut)
Fat: 4-9 grams per tablespoon (varies by type of nut)
Sodium: Varies by type and whether salted
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Varies by type but generally includes vitamin E and B vitamins
Minerals: Magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc
Nutritional benefit: Nuts are nutrient-dense, providing healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They support heart health, improve digestion, and provide sustained energy.
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