Banana Coconut Pudding

Children love this cooling, malay-influenced pudding. Very easy, and soothing after a spicy meal.

In a small bowl , soften tapioca in warm water to cover 1 hour.

While tapioca is soaking , in a small saucepan , cook coconut milk , ginger and sugar over moderate heat , stirring , until sugar is dissolved.

Remove pan from heat and let mixture stand 10 minutes.

Drain tapioca.

Peel bananas and quarter lengthwise.

Cut quarters into inch pieces.

Heat coconut milk mixture over low heat and gently stir in tapioca and bananas.

Cook pudding , stirring , until thickened slightly and bananas are heated through , about 5 minutes , and cool.

Divide pudding among six ramekins and chill , covered , until cold.

Garnish puddings with crystallized ginger.

pearl tapioca, unsweetened coconut milk, crystallized ginger, sugar, bananas