Flan casero
Argentina is known for its delicious and diverse culinary tradition, with rich and flavorful dishes that reflect the country’s cultural and historical influences. From hearty meat dishes to delicate desserts, Argentine cuisine is a true delight for food lovers. Among the many sweets and treats enjoyed in Argentina, one dessert stands out as a classic and beloved favorite: Flan casero.
Flan is a custard-like dessert that originated in ancient Rome and has since been embraced by many cultures around the world, each adding their own unique twists and variations. In Argentina, flan has become an integral part of the country’s culinary landscape, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is a dessert that is simple, yet elegant, and can be served for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a formal celebration.
Typically, flan casero is made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, and is often served with caramel sauce. The key to making a great flan is to achieve the perfect balance of creamy consistency and delicate sweetness, which can be achieved through careful preparation and attention to detail.
The recipe for flan casero is relatively easy, and requires only a few basic ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets. One of the key elements of the recipe is the caramel sauce, which is made by melting sugar in a skillet over low heat and stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color. The caramel is then poured into a baking dish and the custard mixture is added on top.
To make the custard mixture, eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla are whisked together until smooth and creamy. The mixture is then poured over the caramel in the baking dish and baked in a water bath in the oven for about an hour. Once the flan is set, it is removed from the oven and allowed to cool to room temperature before being chilled in the refrigerator for several hours.
Flan casero is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways. Some people prefer to serve it with whipped cream or fresh fruit, while others enjoy it on its own with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Regardless of how it is served, flan casero is a dessert that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
In addition to being delicious, flan casero is also a dessert that is steeped in history and cultural significance. In Argentina, it is often served during special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, and quinceañeras, and is a symbol of family unity and celebration. It is also a dessert that is often made by grandmothers and passed down through generations, making it a cherished family recipe that is steeped in tradition and love.
In conclusion, flan casero is a dessert that is beloved worldwide, and is a staple of Argentine cuisine. Whether served as a simple, elegant dessert or as part of a grand celebration, flan casero is a treat that is sure to delight and satisfy. So go ahead and try making this delicious dessert, and discover why it has captured the hearts and taste buds of so many people around the world.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of cream
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
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In a small pot, add 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Place over medium-high heat and let it cook until it turns into a golden caramel, without stirring.
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Pour the caramel into a 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan and spread evenly, let it cool for a few minutes.
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In a bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten.
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Add the milk, cream, 1/2 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
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Pour the mixture into the cake pan with the caramel, and cover with aluminum foil.
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Place the cake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water, so the flan cooks in a bain-marie.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the flan is set and the top is golden brown.
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Remove the flan from the oven and let it cool before removing it from the pan.
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Once it’s cool, run a knife around the edge of the flan and carefully invert it onto a serving dish, allowing the caramel to drizzle on top.
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Chill the Argentine Flan Casero in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Argentine Flan Casero!