Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x9 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and cinnamon stick over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Slowly pour the mixture into the simmering milk, whisking constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick and stir in the chopped bacon and maple syrup. Pour the mixture into a 9x9 inch baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
4. Once the mixture has set, cut it into squares and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat.
6. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour and eggs. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
7. Dip each square of the set mixture into the flour and egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs.
8. Fry each square in the hot oil until golden brown, using tongs to flip them over as needed. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for the milk and cinnamon mixture, medium-high heat for frying the squares.
Serving size:
Makes 12 squares.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 200
Total fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
- Instead of bacon, you can use chopped ham or cooked sausage.
- If you don't have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Instead of frying the squares, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the milk and cinnamon mixture for extra flavor.
- Instead of using breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the milk and cinnamon mixture is thick enough before adding the bacon and maple syrup, otherwise it may not set properly.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure it sets properly.
- Use a deep skillet or pot for frying to prevent oil splatters.
- Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey on top for extra sweetness.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the squares in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the squares on a platter with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of chopped bacon on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped bacon
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Apple cider
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the milk and cinnamon mixture is too thin, add a little more cornstarch and whisk until it thickens.
- If the squares are falling apart while frying, make sure they are coated well in the flour and egg mixture before adding the breadcrumbs.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the milk and cinnamon mixture is heated to a simmer before adding the cornstarch and sugar mixture to prevent any bacteria growth.
- Use a food thermometer to make sure the oil is heated to 350°F before frying.
Food history:
Leche frita is a traditional Spanish dessert that translates to "fried milk." It is typically made by thickening milk with flour or cornstarch, then frying it until golden brown. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating bacon and maple syrup for a sweet and savory flavor.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, savory, and crunchy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve warm as a dessert or snack.
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