Fried Enoki Mushroom

Short Description

Strawberry Matcha Sago is a delightful Asian-inspired dessert that combines the earthy richness of matcha with the sweet freshness of strawberries. Featuring chewy sago pearls immersed in a creamy matcha-infused milk, complemented by diced strawberries and coconut jellies, this chilled treat offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for warm days or as a refreshing conclusion to any meal, it brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and Light: Ideal for hot weather, this dessert is both cooling and satisfying without being overly heavy.
• Textural Delight: The combination of chewy sago pearls, juicy strawberries, and soft jellies creates a multi-textured experience in every spoonful.
• Visually Appealing: Its vibrant green hue from matcha and the red of strawberries make it a feast for the eyes.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences, including dairy-free or vegan options.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it suitable for both everyday treats and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sago (small tapioca pearls)
• Matcha powder
• Hot water (approximately 80°C)
• Evaporated milk
• Condensed milk
• Regular milk or milk of choice
• Fresh strawberries, washed and diced
• Coconut jelly
• Strawberry heart jelly (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Sago: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the sago pearls and reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pearls become mostly translucent. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for another 10-15 minutes until fully translucent.
2. Rinse and Cool: Strain the cooked sago and rinse under cold running water to remove excess starch. Submerge the sago in a bowl of cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
3. Prepare Matcha Milk: Sift the matcha powder into a small heatproof bowl. Add hot water (80°C) and whisk in a “W” motion until frothy and well combined. Add regular milk and mix thoroughly.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sago, evaporated milk, condensed milk, matcha milk, diced strawberries, coconut jelly, and strawberry heart jelly (if using). Stir gently to mix.
5. Serve: Pour the mixture into individual serving cups. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute evaporated and regular milk with plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free condensed milk substitute or sweeten with agave syrup or maple syrup.
• Additional Fruits: Enhance the flavor by adding other fruits such as lychee, mango, or jackfruit.
• Toppings: Incorporate toppings like popping boba, chia seeds, or granola for added texture.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Modify the amount of condensed milk to suit your preferred sweetness level.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Note that the sago pearls may harden over time; to soften, briefly soak them in warm water before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as freezing can alter the texture of the sago pearls, making them mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

What is sago?

Sago refers to small, translucent pearls made from starch extracted from tropical palm stems. Commonly used in Asian desserts, they provide a chewy texture when cooked.

Can I use tapioca pearls instead of sago?

Yes, tapioca pearls are a suitable substitute for sago and are more readily available in many regions. They offer a similar chewy texture.

How do I prevent sago pearls from sticking together?

After cooking, rinse the sago pearls under cold running water to remove excess starch, then soak them in cold water until ready to use. This prevents them from clumping.

Is it necessary to use ceremonial-grade matcha?

While ceremonial-grade matcha offers a more refined flavor and vibrant color, culinary-grade matcha is also acceptable for this recipe, especially if you’re looking for a more economical option.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Strawberry Matcha Sago ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to consume it within 1-2 days.

How can I adjust the sweetness?

The sweetness can be adjusted by varying the amount of condensed milk or by adding alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup to taste.

What other toppings can I add?

Popular additions include fruit jellies, popping boba, chia seeds, or even a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

Absolutely. Use plant-based milk alternatives and a vegan condensed milk substitute or other sweeteners to make the dessert vegan-friendly.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, Strawberry Matcha Sago is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What occasions is this dessert suitable for?

This refreshing dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, festive occasions, or as a light and satisfying end to any meal.

Conclusion

Strawberry Matcha Sago is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that brings together the earthy notes of matcha with the sweetness of strawberries and the chewiness of sago pearls. Its visual appeal and refreshing taste make it a standout dessert for various occasions. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this dessert offers a delightful experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.

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