Delicious Bienmesabe Recipe: A Taste Of Spanish Delight

Looking for a delicious dessert that will transport you straight to the flavors of the Canary Islands? Look no further! The bienmesabe recipe is a tantalizing treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more. This traditional Spanish dessert combines the richness of almonds with the sweetness of honey and the smoothness of eggs, resulting in a heavenly concoction that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this recipe is a must-try. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of bienmesabe!

Bienmesabe Recipe: A Delicious Taste of Spain

Bienmesabe is a traditional Spanish dessert that originates from the Canary Islands. The name “bienmesabe” translates to “tastes good to me” in English, and once you try this delectable treat, you’ll understand why! With its rich and creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and hints of almond and lemon, bienmesabe is a dessert that truly delights the taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore the history of bienmesabe, its key ingredients, and provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe so you can recreate this Spanish delight in your own kitchen.

The History of Bienmesabe

Bienmesabe has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 15th century when the Canary Islands were colonized by Spain. It is believed that the dessert was influenced by Moorish cuisine, as almonds and honey were significant ingredients in Arab cooking. Over the centuries, bienmesabe has evolved, and different variations of the recipe have emerged.

Today, bienmesabe remains a popular dessert in the Canary Islands, where it is often enjoyed on special occasions and holidays. Its smooth and creamy consistency, combined with the unique flavors of almonds and lemon, make it a beloved treat across Spain and beyond.

The Key Ingredients

To make bienmesabe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. 1 cup of almonds, blanched and peeled
2. 1 cup of sugar
3. 1 cup of water
4. 1 lemon, zest and juice
5. 4 egg yolks
6. 1 cup of butter, softened
7. Cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

Almonds

Almonds are the star ingredient in bienmesabe. They provide the dessert with its distinctive flavor and creamy texture. Make sure to use blanched and peeled almonds to achieve the desired consistency.

Sugar

Sugar adds sweetness to the bienmesabe. The amount mentioned in the recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a healthier twist.

Lemon

The zest and juice of a lemon provide a refreshing citrusy note to balance the richness of the almonds and butter. It adds a subtle tang that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dessert.

Egg Yolks

Egg yolks act as a binding agent and contribute to the smoothness of the bienmesabe. They add richness and a silky texture that is essential for this traditional dessert.

Butter

Butter is another crucial ingredient that contributes to the creamy texture and richness of bienmesabe. Make sure to use softened butter for easy incorporation into the mixture.

The Recipe

Now that we’ve explored the history and ingredients of bienmesabe, it’s time to dive into the recipe itself. Follow these simple steps to create your own delightful serving of this traditional Spanish dessert:

1. In a blender or food processor, grind the blanched and peeled almonds until they reach a fine consistency.
2. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Add the ground almonds to the saucepan and continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This usually takes around 10 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until creamy.
6. Add the softened butter to the egg yolks and continue whisking until well combined.
7. Squeeze the juice of the lemon into the egg yolk and butter mixture, and grate the lemon zest directly into the bowl. Mix well.
8. Add the almond mixture to the egg yolk and butter mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Serving and Variations

Once your bienmesabe mixture is ready, you can enjoy it right away or let it cool in the refrigerator for a couple of hours for a chilled dessert experience. Bienmesabe is traditionally served in small bowls or glasses, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

While the classic bienmesabe recipe is already heavenly, there are a few variations you can explore to add your own twist:

• Coconut Bienmesabe: Substitute part of the almonds with shredded coconut to add a tropical flair to the dessert.
• Chocolate Bienmesabe: Melt some dark chocolate and fold it into the bienmesabe mixture for a luscious chocolatey treat.
• Fruit-infused Bienmesabe: Serve the bienmesabe with a side of fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or berries for a refreshing and colorful twist.

Bienmesabe is a truly delightful dessert that showcases the best flavors of Spain. Its rich almond base, combined with the sweetness of sugar and tang of lemon, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re planning a Spanish-themed dinner party or simply want to indulge in a delicious treat, this bienmesabe recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Give it a try and savor the taste of Spain in every spoonful!

Recipe – Bienmesabe

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of bienmesabe?

The bienmesabe recipe originated in Spain, specifically in the Canary Islands. It is a traditional dessert that has been enjoyed for many generations.

What are the main ingredients used in bienmesabe?

The main ingredients used in bienmesabe include almonds, sugar, egg yolks, cinnamon, lemon zest, and sometimes a touch of rum for added flavor.

Is bienmesabe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?

Bienmesabe is naturally gluten-free and does not contain any dairy products, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance. However, it does contain nuts, so it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

How is bienmesabe typically served?

Bienmesabe is typically served chilled as a dessert. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Can bienmesabe be made ahead of time?

Yes, bienmesabe can be made ahead of time. In fact, it is recommended to refrigerate the dessert for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and for it to achieve the perfect texture.

Can I make substitutions in the bienmesabe recipe?

While it is best to follow the traditional bienmesabe recipe for an authentic flavor, you can make some substitutions based on personal preference or dietary restrictions. For example, you could use a sugar substitute instead of regular sugar, or experiment with different types of nuts to add your own twist to the recipe.

Final Thoughts

The bienmesabe recipe is a delectable Spanish dessert that encapsulates the essence of traditional sweets. With its rich blend of ground almonds, sugar, and eggs, this dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The moist and fluffy cake, topped with a creamy layer of custard, creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you are a dessert enthusiast or simply looking to explore new culinary delights, the bienmesabe recipe is a must-try. Indulge in this exquisite dessert and let its heavenly taste transport you to the vibrant streets of Spain.