Nuts with boiled condensed milk are a delightful treat rooted in 19th-century Russia. You'll love the simple process of mixing crushed nuts with boiled condensed milk, then rolling the mixture into bite-sized balls. These indulgent bites are often dipped in chocolate for a rich finish. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, they bring a taste of nostalgia to any gathering. Keep going to discover more about their history and variations!
History
Nuts with boiled condensed milk, or "Oreshki," has a rich history that dates back to 19th-century Russia, where it emerged as a popular festive dessert.
This treat features shortbread-like shells shaped like walnuts, filled with a creamy mixture made primarily from boiled condensed milk. The method of boiling condensed milk to create a dulce de leche-like filling became accessible to home cooks thanks to the introduction of canned goods in Europe during that time.
Oreshki quickly gained popularity across Eastern Europe, often enjoyed with tea during celebrations. Over the years, the dessert has seen various adaptations, including gluten-free and vegan versions, yet it continues to resonate with nostalgia and cultural significance in the region's culinary landscape. Additionally, the rise of sustainable fashion has inspired some chefs to consider eco-friendly ingredients in traditional recipes.
Recipe
To make these treats, you'll need only a few simple ingredients and no baking is required. The process involves mixing the nuts with the condensed milk, chilling the mixture, rolling it into balls, and then coating them in chocolate. With just a little patience, you can create an impressive and delicious dessert that everyone will love. Additionally, these treats can be a great option for themed events like birthday parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 100 grams crushed walnuts
- 400 grams condensed milk
- 100 grams chocolate
- 20 grams chopped nuts (for decoration)
- Optional: golden glitter for decoration
Instructions:
Start by combining the crushed walnuts with the condensed milk in a mixing bowl, stirring gently until the mixture is well incorporated.
Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate for a few hours or until the mixture is firm.
When ready, use oiled hands to form the chilled mixture into bite-sized balls.
Melt the chocolate using a gentle heat method, then dip each ball into the melted chocolate using a fork to ensure an even coating.
Place the coated balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and immediately sprinkle them with chopped nuts and optional golden glitter for a festive touch.
Let the chocolate set before serving.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the crushed walnuts lightly before mixing them with the condensed milk.
This will bring out their natural oils and deepen the nutty flavor.
Additionally, if you want a more decadent treat, you can use dark chocolate for coating or experiment with different types of nuts for rolling.
Always keep the hands oiled during the rolling process to prevent the mixture from sticking and making it easier to shape the balls.
Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!
Cooking Steps
To start making your delicious treats, crush 100 grams of walnuts and mix them with a bit of vegetable oil.
Once you've got a smooth consistency, form the mixture into small balls.
After that, dip each ball in melted chocolate for a delightful finish. Additionally, you can serve these treats alongside Cheesy Polenta to create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Step 1. Crush 100 Grams of Walnuts
Select high-quality walnuts to kick off your process. Make sure they're fresh and free from any rancid smell.
For a rustic texture, place the walnuts in a food processor or inside a sturdy plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin. Aim for a coarse grind, keeping some walnut-shaped pieces larger for added crunch; finely ground walnuts can turn into butter.
If you want a deeper flavor, consider lightly toasting the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 5-8 minutes before crushing. Remember to let them cool completely.
Once crushed, measure out exactly 100 grams, as this precise amount is crucial for maintaining the balance of flavors in your recipe. Butter is a source of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which can complement your dish when paired with walnuts. Enjoy the process!
Step 2. Mix With Vegetable Oil
As you prepare to mix the crushed walnuts with boiled condensed milk, lightly oiling your hands with vegetable oil makes the process smoother and less messy.
This simple trick prevents the sticky mixture from adhering to your fingers, allowing you to work efficiently. The vegetable oil not only aids in shaping the mixture but also ensures a clean surface for any upcoming chocolate coating.
Plus, it helps maintain the integrity of the cooked condensed milk without altering its delightful flavor, letting the natural taste of the walnuts shine through.
Step 3. Form Into Small Balls
Start by oiling your hands to keep the mixture from sticking while you form the balls.
Take the chilled mixture of crushed walnuts and condensed milk, and scoop out small portions. Roll each portion into bite-sized balls, aiming for uniformity by making them about the size of a tablespoon. This size ensures a balanced presentation and makes them easy to handle.
Once you've shaped all the balls, set them aside. You'll want to let them chill a bit longer to firm up. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Additionally, using natural sweeteners can enhance the flavor without adding refined sugar.
You're now ready for the next phase, where you'll coat these delightful treats in melted chocolate, adding that luscious finish they deserve!
Step 4. Dip in Melted Chocolate
After letting the balls chill to firm up, it's time to coat them in melted chocolate for that irresistible finish.
Begin by melting 100 grams of chocolate using a gentle method, like placing a glass bowl over simmering water to avoid burning.
Once melted, grab a fork and dip each chilled bite-sized ball of your cookie nuts with condensed milk mixture into the chocolate, ensuring they're fully covered.
Then, place the chocolate-coated balls on a parchment-lined plate to prevent sticking.
For extra texture and presentation, sprinkle 20 grams of chopped nuts on top before the chocolate hardens.
If you want to make them festive, add a touch of golden glitter for a delightful holiday appeal.
Incorporating low-carb meals into your diet can make indulging in treats like these more balanced.
Enjoy your delicious treats!
Step 5. Chill to Set Chocolate Coating
Once you've coated the rolled balls in melted chocolate, place them on a parchment-lined tray to prevent sticking.
To ensure the best texture and shine, melt the chocolate gently, avoiding any burning. If you want to add a little flair, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before the chocolate sets.
Now, pop the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the chocolate to harden, creating a firm shell that enhances the overall taste and presentation.
The combination of the rich chocolate and the nuts with boiled condensed milk becomes even more delightful as the flavors meld together. Butter adds rich flavor and enjoy the satisfying crunch and creamy texture that comes from the softened butter in your treats!
Final Thoughts
While indulging in the delightful taste of nuts with boiled condensed milk, you can't help but appreciate the rich blend of flavors and textures that make this traditional Russian dessert so beloved.
Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the shortbread shell and a creamy, nutty filling that keeps you coming back for more.
Make sure to explore variations of this recipe, whether you're aiming for gluten-free or vegan options, to suit your dietary needs.
With an energy content of 426 kcal per 100g, these treats are indulgent, so enjoy them in moderation.
Incorporating chia seeds into your diet can enhance the nutritional profile of this dessert by adding essential fatty acids and fiber.
Whether you're sharing them with friends or savoring them alone, nuts with boiled condensed milk will surely leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Boiling Condensed Milk Do?
Boiling condensed milk transforms it into a rich, creamy treat known as dulce de leche.
As you boil it, the water evaporates, thickening the texture and concentrating the flavors.
You'll notice the sugars caramelizing, creating a deep, sweet flavor that's perfect for various desserts.
By adjusting the boiling time, you can customize the sweetness and consistency to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.
Enjoy experimenting!
What Happens if You Simmer Condensed Milk for 3 Hours?
If you simmer condensed milk for 3 hours, you'll transform it into a thick, caramel-like treat known as dulce de leche.
As the milk heats, water evaporates, and sugars caramelize, creating a rich, creamy texture. The longer you simmer, the darker and more intense the flavor becomes.
Just be careful—monitor it closely to avoid burning, and stir regularly to keep it from sticking to the pot.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Is Boiled Condensed Milk the Same as Dulce De Leche?
No, boiled condensed milk isn't the same as dulce de leche.
While both are sweet, creamy spreads made from milk and sugar, their preparation methods create distinct flavors and textures.
You make boiled condensed milk by cooking sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and caramelizes, resulting in a rich taste.
In contrast, dulce de leche is made by slowly heating milk and sugar, giving it a lighter color and a more complex caramel flavor.
What Is Condensed Milk Good With?
You'd think condensed milk is just for desserts, right? Well, it's much more versatile!
You can mix it into your coffee or tea for a creamy boost. Drizzle it over fresh fruit to create a delightful contrast.
It's also great in baking, adding richness to cakes or ice creams. Plus, in some savory dishes, it brings a surprising sweetness that complements spicy flavors.
You'll discover it's a true culinary chameleon!
Conclusion
In the end, enjoying nuts with boiled condensed milk is like savoring a sweet symphony, where each nut plays its unique note, harmonizing beautifully with the creamy richness. You've crafted a treat that not only delights the palate but also evokes cherished memories of cozy gatherings. So, next time you whip up this indulgence, remember that you're not just making a snack; you're creating a moment of joy that resonates long after the last bite.
