Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream and caramel sauce for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Serving cups or ramekins
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, sugar, and cinnamon stick over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and starts to boil.
5. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
6. Pour the mixture into serving cups or ramekins and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
8. To serve, top with whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 81g
- Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the mixture for a stronger cinnamon flavor.
- Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist.
- Substitute the caramel sauce with chocolate sauce or fruit compote.
Tips and tricks:
- Whisk the mixture constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the mixture before pouring it into the serving cups for a smoother texture.
- Let the natillas cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
Storage instructions:
- Store the natillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Natillas can be served cold or at room temperature. Do not heat them up.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the natillas in clear glass cups or ramekins to showcase the layers.
- Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce for a decadent look.
Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Fresh berries
- Sliced bananas
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate
Suggested side dishes:
- Churros
- Biscotti
- Shortbread cookies
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the mixture is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use pasteurized eggs to prevent the risk of salmonella.
Food history:
- Natillas are a traditional Spanish dessert that dates back to the 16th century.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Sweet
- Cinnamon
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the natillas as a dessert after a Spanish-inspired meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Region: Mexican
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Caramelized, Rich