Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 6 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of turbinado sugar
Special equipment needed:
- 6 ramekins
- Kitchen torch
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla bean. Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove the vanilla bean and pour the mixture into 6 ramekins. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
6. When ready to serve, sprinkle turbinado sugar evenly over the top of each ramekin. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 330
Fat per serving: 20g
Carbohydrates per serving: 30g
Protein per serving: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vanilla bean can be substituted with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a spiced flavor.
- Top with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a fruity twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the egg mixture constantly while pouring in the hot milk to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar evenly and avoid burning.
Storage instructions:
Store the crema catalana in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Serve cold.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the crema catalana in the ramekins or unmold onto a plate for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Pairings:
Serve with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of biscotti or shortbread cookies.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the custard is too thin, add more cornstarch. If it's too thick, add more milk.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the custard to the proper temperature to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Crema catalana is a traditional Spanish dessert that dates back to the 18th century.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, and vanilla-infused with a crispy caramelized sugar topping.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a dessert after a Spanish-inspired meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Spanish
Taste: Creamy, Sweet, Vanilla, Caramelized, Custardy