Cuban Flan, or Flan de Leche, is a beloved dessert across Latin America, particularly in Cuba. This creamy custard is characterized by its rich caramel layer, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s a staple at celebrations such as weddings and quinceañeras, showcasing its significance in Cuban culture.
Flan has roots that trace back to ancient Roman times, evolving through various cultures. The version known today in Cuba has been influenced by Spanish culinary traditions, becoming a popular dish due to its simplicity and elegance. The combination of eggs, milk, and sugar creates a versatile dessert that is enjoyed throughout Latin America, each country adding its unique twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-high, stirring until sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color. Pour quickly into a 9-inch round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom and sides.
3. Prepare the Custard: In a blender, mix sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine and Bake: Pour the custard mixture into the caramel-coated dish. Place the dish in a larger pan and add hot water to the outer pan, halfway up the sides of the flan dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set (check with a toothpick).
5. Cool and Chill: Allow the flan to cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Serve: Run a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert onto a serving platter, allowing the caramel to drizzle over the top.
Notes:
- Work quickly when making caramel, as it can burn easily.
- Strain the egg mixture through a fine sieve for a smoother texture.
- Use a metal baking dish for even heat distribution.
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- Calories: condensed milk is calorie-dense, contributing approximately 300-400 calories per can.
- Carbohydrates: contains about 55-70 grams, primarily from sugars.
- Protein: provides around 7-10 grams.
- Fat: typically contains 8-12 grams, depending on the brand.
- Sodium: around 150-200 mg.
- Cholesterol: approximately 30-40 mg.
- Vitamins: offers some vitamin A and calcium.
- Minerals: contains calcium and phosphorus.
- Nutritional benefit: adds creaminess and sweetness, providing essential nutrients like calcium.
2. 1 cup whole milk
- Calories: approximately 150 calories.
- Carbohydrates: contains about 12 grams.
- Protein: provides around 8 grams.
- Fat: typically has about 8 grams, with 5 grams of saturated fat.
- Sodium: around 100 mg.
- Cholesterol: approximately 24 mg.
- Vitamins: a good source of vitamin D and B12.
- Minerals: contains calcium and potassium.
- Nutritional benefit: contributes protein, calcium, and healthy fats.
3. 4 large eggs
- Calories: approximately 280 calories (70 calories per egg).
- Carbohydrates: about 2 grams.
- Protein: provides around 24 grams.
- Fat: contains about 20 grams, with 7 grams of saturated fat.
- Sodium: approximately 280 mg.
- Cholesterol: around 840 mg.
- Vitamins: a source of vitamins A, D, E, and B12.
- Minerals: contains iron, phosphorus, and selenium.
- Nutritional benefit: offers high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Calories: approximately 12 calories.
- Carbohydrates: about 1 gram.
- Protein: negligible.
- Fat: negligible.
- Sodium: around 1 mg.
- Cholesterol: 0 mg.
- Vitamins: minimal vitamins present.
- Minerals: minimal minerals present.
- Nutritional benefit: enhances flavor and aroma without adding significant calories.
5. 1 cup granulated sugar
- Calories: approximately 774 calories.
- Carbohydrates: about 200 grams.
- Protein: 0 grams.
- Fat: 0 grams.
- Sodium: 0 mg.
- Cholesterol: 0 mg.
- Vitamins: contains no vitamins.
- Minerals: contains no significant minerals.
- Nutritional benefit: provides sweetness and energy but lacks essential nutrients.
6. 1/4 cup water
- Calories: 0 calories.
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams.
- Protein: 0 grams.
- Fat: 0 grams.
- Sodium: 0 mg.
- Cholesterol: 0 mg.
- Vitamins: contains no vitamins.
- Minerals: contains no minerals.
- Nutritional benefit: serves as a medium for dissolving sugar and does not add any calories or nutrients.
Comments