Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Serving cups or ramekins
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and cinnamon stick. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Remove the cinnamon stick and strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps.
7. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins and let cool to room temperature.
8. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 300
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use 2% or skim milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.
- If you don't have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour instead.
Variations:
- You can add a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture for a boozy twist.
- Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Whisk constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Make sure to strain the mixture to remove any lumps or curdled eggs.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
Storage Instructions:
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Serve cold.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve in individual cups or ramekins.
Garnishes:
Top with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the mixture is too thin, add a little more cornstarch and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk and whisk until smooth.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the mixture to a temperature of at least 160°F to ensure that the eggs are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Food History:
Natillas is a traditional Spanish dessert that dates back to the 16th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Creamy, sweet, and vanilla-flavored.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert after a meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Mexican
Taste: Creamy, Sweet, Vanilla, Rich, Vanilla-Flavored