Nordic Whipped Apricot Semolina - Vispi Puuro

Whipped semolina is a traditional Finnish dessert that dates back centuries, when it was prepared as an inexpensive and nutritious way to use up berries, such as lingonberries. It was also a wholesome way to feed the children in the morning. The magic will happen after whipping the cooled concoction which will then reach a mousse-like consistency that is light and fluffy like a cloud.

The name of the porridge is derived from two Finnish words: Vispilä, meaning to whisk and puuro meaning porridge. that is vigorously beaten by hand especially before the widespread use of electric mixers.

In Sweden it is called Klappgröt, and comes from a word “Klappa” which sounds like clapping when you whisk it by hand.

Vispipuuro has been a staple in the Nordic food culture and was a tradition in my childhood home and later in life continuing the tradition and serving the semolina to my boys. A true loved dessert, breakfast or any time of the day yumminess.
The "Vispipuuro" has been passed down from generation to generation. Today you can find the whipped semolina ready made in many grocery stores in Finland.

INGREDIENTS FOR 3-4 SERVINGS

1.5 liter water

4  dl dried apricots

¼  dl sugar

1¼ dl semolina

Pinch of salt

INSTRUCTIONS

In a pot bring water, apricots and sugar to a boil and let them become syrupy.

Strain the apricots and reserve the liquid. You can also use an immersion blender to make a purée to utilize the whole goodness of the fruit.

Put the mixture back on the stove and bring it to a boil. Whisk in Semolina little by little and let it cook slowly, continuasly stirring for 5-10 min. Let the porridge cool completely.

Once cooled completely, whisk vigorously with electric beaters or by hand until fluffy and light.

Now comes the fun part….whipping the porridge constantly the magic happens ….the semolina reveals its beautiful pastel orange colour and a smooth cloud like texture.

Serve the whipped semolina chilled or room temperature with a sprinkle of sugar and with cold milk.The semolina looks especially beautiful served in a clear glass bowl.

Nutritious, healthy and divine.

Tip* You can substitute the apricots with cranberries, lingonberries, blueberries or apples in the same way.

The juiciness of the berries or fruit affects the consistency of the porridge, so adjust the amount of water according to the berries you use - for example, 7 dl water and 4 dl frozen lingonberries is a good starting point. Frozen berries soften quickly, and a short cooking time is enough.

Enjoy!