Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon peel
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- 8-inch square baking dish
- Large skillet
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Heat over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Slowly pour in the milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. In a shallow dish, combine the flour and bread crumbs. Cut the chilled mixture into squares and coat each square in the flour mixture.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated squares until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. In a small saucepan, heat the honey, orange zest, and orange juice over low heat until warmed through.
8. Serve the fried squares drizzled with the orange and honey sauce.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours or overnight
Temperature:
Milk mixture: medium heat
Frying oil: medium-high heat
Honey sauce: low heat
Serving size:
Makes 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 320
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 70mg
Sugar: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be substituted with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Cornstarch can be substituted with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with canola oil or sunflower oil.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the milk mixture for extra flavor.
- Top the fried squares with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Substitute the orange and honey sauce with a chocolate or caramel sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the milk mixture constantly to prevent lumps.
- Chill the mixture overnight for best results.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried squares from the skillet to prevent excess oil.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover Leche Frita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the squares on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Leche Frita on a platter with the orange and honey sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with orange slices and fresh mint leaves.
Garnishes:
- Orange slices
- Fresh mint leaves
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Pairings:
- Coffee or espresso
- Spanish sherry or port wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Spanish churros
- Vanilla ice cream
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the milk mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out.
- If the fried squares are not crispy enough, increase the heat of the oil.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the milk mixture to a boil to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Use caution when frying to prevent burns.
Food history:
Leche Frita is a traditional Spanish dessert that originated in the region of Asturias. It is typically served during the Christmas season and is a popular dessert at Spanish restaurants.
Flavor profiles:
Leche Frita is a creamy and sweet dessert with hints of cinnamon and lemon. The orange and honey sauce adds a citrusy and floral note to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
Serve Leche Frita as a dessert after a Spanish-inspired meal or as a sweet treat for a special occasion.
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Region: Spanish