Tiramisu, that marvellous symphony of flavours, a dessert that transcends borders and cultures, offering a culinary journey straight to Italy without having to leave your kitchen. Imagine a texture so creamy it melts in your mouth, a perfect harmony between full-bodied coffee and the sweetness of mascarpone, crowned by a light touch of cocoa. Get ready to discover how to create this culinary work of art with your own hands.
Original Tiramisu Recipe
Ingredients:
- 300g mascarpone
- 3 large eggs
- 100g sugar
- 200g sponge biscuits
- 1 cup strong coffee, cooled
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- 30ml Amaretto or Marsala (optional)
- Salt, a pinch
How to prepare:
- Separate the eggs: Start by separating the yolks from the egg whites. Make sure your whites are at room temperature to maximise their volume when whipped.
- Whisk the yolks: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until pale and creamy. Then fold in the mascarpone until smooth.
- Whiskthe egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff. Gently fold them into the mascarpone mixture to aerate the mixture.
- Dip the biscuits: Dip each biscuit quickly in the coffee (with or without Amaretto/Marsala, according to your preference), then place a first layer at the bottom of your dish.
- Assemble the tiramisu: Alternate layers of soaked biscuits and mascarpone cream, finishing with a layer of cream.
- Chill in the fridge: Leave the tiramisu to rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavours to infuse perfectly.
- To serve: Before serving, sprinkle generously with cocoa powder for an irresistible finishing touch.
Nutritional Details
One portion of this Italian authenticity contains approximately 450 calories. Rich in protein thanks to the mascarpone and eggs, tiramisu is also a source of complex carbohydrates thanks to the sponge biscuits. However, it is high in saturated fat and sugar, making it a pleasure to be enjoyed in moderation.
The History of Tiramisu
Tiramisu, whose name means “pull me up” or more poetically “take me to heaven”, has debated origins but is undeniably rooted in Italian culinary tradition. Although it became popular worldwide in the 1980s, its roots are thought to date back to the Italian Renaissance. Some say it originated in Veneto, others attribute it to Tuscany. Whatever its true origins, tiramisu is a testament to Italian ingenuity in pastry-making, capturing the essence of Italy in every spoonful.
This dessert has travelled through the ages, adapting and transforming, but always retaining its core: a winning combination of coffee, mascarpone, and soaked biscuits, enhanced by a hint of alcohol and the bitter character of cocoa. Each bite is a journey through time and culture, a culinary experience not to be missed.
Preparing tiramisu at home means embracing a part of Italy’s culinary heritage, and creating a moment of joy shared with those you love. So, whether you’re a gourmet or a novice in the kitchen, let yourself be tempted by the tiramisu adventure, and bring a little piece of Italy to your plate.
