South African Baked Sago Pudding Recipe

Ingredients for South African Baked Sago Pudding

• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup small sago pearls
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Ground Nutmeg
• Sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup apricot jam

How to Make South African Baked Sago Pudding

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Lightly grease a large (approximately 2-quart) pudding dish.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat 4 cups of milk to just below boiling. Stir in 1 cup small sago pearls, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or cinnamon).
4. Reduce heat to very low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sago is completely transparent and tender (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large egg yolks.
7. Gently whisk the egg yolks into the warm sago mixture. Pour the mixture into the prepared pudding dish.
8. Spoon 1/2 cup apricot jam evenly over the sago mixture, creating dollops or swirls.
9. In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat 4 large egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
10. Spread the meringue evenly over the apricot jam layer.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown and the pudding is set.
12. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, at room temperature, or chilled!