Keşkül facts for kids
Keşkül with cracked walnuts on it.
|
|
| Type | Pudding |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Turkey |
| Main ingredients | Almonds, milk |
Keşkül (Turkish: keşkül) is a delicious, creamy pudding from Turkish cuisine. It's made mainly with almonds and milk. This sweet treat is usually served in a bowl and eaten with a spoon. You'll often see it topped with coconut shavings or pistachio nuts. Keşkül has a lovely off-white color.
Contents
What is Keşkül?
Keşkül is a traditional dessert that's popular in Turkey. It's known for its smooth texture and rich, nutty flavor. People enjoy it as a sweet ending to a meal or as a refreshing snack.
Key Ingredients of Keşkül
The main ingredients that make Keşkül so special are almonds and milk. These are blended together to create a thick, creamy base. Sugar is added for sweetness, and sometimes a touch of vanilla or orange blossom water gives it extra flavor.
How Keşkül is Made
Making Keşkül involves cooking milk, ground almonds, sugar, and a thickener like rice flour or cornstarch. The mixture is stirred constantly over heat until it becomes thick and smooth. Once cooked, it's poured into individual bowls and chilled. Chilling helps the pudding set and makes it even more refreshing.
The Story Behind the Name
The name Keşkül has an interesting history. It comes from an old Ottoman Turkish saying, "keşkül-i fukara." This phrase means "beggar's bowl."
What Does "Keşkül" Mean?
Historically, a keşkül was a special bowl used by traveling beggars or dervishes. These bowls were often made from coconut shells or wood. They were used to collect food or donations. Over time, this delicious pudding became known as Keşkül, perhaps because it was a simple, nourishing dish.
Enjoying Keşkül
Keşkül is best served cold. It's a perfect dessert for warm days. Before serving, it's common to decorate the top. Popular toppings include shredded coconut, finely chopped pistachios, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Sometimes, people add a few whole almonds or a drizzle of honey.
