Red Grout Dessert From the US Virgin Islands

By
Kristina Vanni
Kristina Vanni
Kristina Vanni
An internationally recognized culinary authority, Kristina Vanni is well-known for her recipe development, food photography, and experience as a TV show host.
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Updated on 01/18/22
St. Croix Red Grout Dessert
Kristina Vanni
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 15 mins
Total: 30 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
424 Calories
17g Fat
63g Carbs
7g Protein
Show Full Nutrition Label Hide Full Nutrition Label
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Amount per serving
Calories 424
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 17g 21%
Saturated Fat 9g 45%
Cholesterol 222mg 74%
Sodium 220mg 10%
Total Carbohydrate 63g 23%
Dietary Fiber 2g 6%
Total Sugars 49g
Protein 7g
Vitamin C 33mg 166%
Calcium 98mg 8%
Iron 2mg 9%
Potassium 190mg 4%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)

Don't be fooled by the unusual name, "Red Grout" is the signature dessert from the U.S. Virgin Islands. This decadent tapioca and guava concoction is representative of the blend of cultures and influences throughout the history of the islands.  

This treat is traditionally served on March 31, a holiday known as Transfer Day. This is a commemoration of the transfer of the islands from Denmark to the United States. On this date in 1917, the United States officially purchased the Virgin Islands from Denmark. Each year on this anniversary, the territory symbolically lowers the Danish flag and raises the stars and stripes. The holiday also features ceremonies and other opportunities to learn about and appreciate the Danish history of the islands. Serving Red Grout is one of the highlights of the Transfer Day celebration, because this tapioca dessert was first introduced by the Danish.  

Traditionally this dish is prepared with the seeds and skins of guava fruit. I simplified this version by using guava nectar. This way, the dish can be enjoyed year-round in all parts of the country, even if you don't have access to the gorgeous produce available in the Virgin Islands.  

Red Grout is typically served with a bit of vanilla cream. Spoon the guava-flavored tapioca into your serving dish and top with the vanilla cream for an authentic St. Croix dessert experience.  

Ingredients

For the Red Grout:

  • 2 1/2 cups guava nectar

  • 1/3 cup sugar

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1/4 cup tapioca, quick cooking

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Cream:

  • 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 1/2 cup whipping cream

  • 1 vanilla bean

  • 3 large egg yolks

  • 3 tablespoons sugar

Steps to Make It

Prepare the Red Grout:

  1. In a medium sauce pan, bring guava nectar and sugar to a boil.  

  2. Stir in salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.

  3. In a small container, combine the quick-cooking tapioca with the water.  

  4. Slowly add the tapioca mixture into the saucepan and stir to combine.  

  5. Bring to a boil once more, stirring constantly.  

  6. Remove from the heat when the tapioca grains are clear. This should take about 13 minutes.  

  7. Stir in vanilla extract. Cool completely.

Prepare the Vanilla Cream:

  1. While the red grout is cooling, prepare the vanilla cream.  

  2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and cream.  

  3. Split the vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds into the milk mixture.  

  4. Toss the split vanilla bean into the milk as well.  

  5. Bring the milk mixture to a simmer and then remove from the heat.

  6. Remove vanilla bean pods. 

  7. In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar to combine.

  8. Gradually whisk the hot milk mixture into the yolk mixture.

  9. Return the custard to the sauce pan and stir over low heat until the custard thickens. (Do not boil) This will take about 5 minutes.  

  10. Strain the sauce into a container, cover, and chill until ready to use.  

Raw Egg Warning

Consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs poses a risk of foodborne illness.

Note: The vanilla cream can be prepared up to one day ahead of serving.

To serve:

Spoon red grout into serving dishes, top with vanilla cream. Serve chilled.  

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