Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cornstarch, and the remaining sugar until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean mixing bowl.
7. Cover the surface of the crema with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of crema
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Lemon juice and zest can be used instead of orange for a different flavor.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur for an adult version.
- Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Whisk constantly while heating the mixture to prevent lumps from forming.
- Straining the mixture through a fine mesh strainer will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual dessert cups or ramekins.
- Top with a sprinkle of orange zest or a slice of fresh orange.
Garnishes:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Orange zest
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or Prosecco for a special occasion.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Shortbread cookies
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture becomes lumpy, strain it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the crema promptly after making it to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Crema pasticciera is a traditional Italian pastry cream used in many desserts, including tarts and cakes.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, sweet, and tangy with a bright orange flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a dessert or use as a filling for cakes and pastries.
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Region: Italian