Embark on a journey into the heart of Argentine culinary finesse as we explore the enchanting world of Flan, a dessert that transcends mere sweetness to become a cultural emblem. Argentina, a country renowned for its rich gastronomic tapestry, introduces us to a dessert that is not just a treat for the taste buds but a celebration of tradition and passion. In this culinary odyssey, we delve into the origins, the meticulous preparation, and the cultural significance that makes Argentine Flan a cherished delight on tables across the nation. Join us as we unravel the velvety layers of this iconic dessert, discovering the secrets and stories that make Argentine Flan a true masterpiece in the realm of global sweets.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Caramel:

1- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat.

2- Stir continuously until the sugar melts and turns into a golden-brown caramel.

3- Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of a round or rectangular baking dish, swirling it to coat the bottom evenly. Be cautious as the caramel is hot.

3. Make the Flan Mixture:

1- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.

2- Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue whisking until fully combined.

3- Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuing to whisk.

4- Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring a smooth and uniform mixture.

4. Strain the Mixture:

1- To achieve a silky texture, strain the flan mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl or directly onto the caramel-coated baking dish.

5. Bake in a Water Bath:

1- Place the baking dish with the caramel and flan mixture inside a larger roasting pan.

2- Pour hot water into the roasting pan, creating a water bath around the flan dish. The water level should be about halfway up the sides of the flan dish.

3- Carefully transfer the setup into the preheated oven.

6. Bake the Flan:

1- Bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until the flan is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.

7. Chill and Serve:

1- Once done, remove the flan from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.

2- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.

3- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the flan to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the baking dish and invert the flan onto the plate, letting the caramel sauce flow over the top.

8. Enjoy:

1- Slice and enjoy the creamy, caramel-infused goodness of this authentic Argentine Flan.

Indulge in this classic Argentine dessert, and savor the delectable harmony of caramel and custard that defines the soul of Argentine cuisine.

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values for the main ingredients in the Argentine Flan recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and product variations:

1. Granulated Sugar (1 cup):

• Calories: 774
• Carbohydrates: 200g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 200g

benefits:

• Provides a quick source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content.
• Adds sweetness and enhances flavor in desserts like flan.

2. Eggs (4 large):

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 1.6g
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1.6g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, crucial for muscle development and repair.
• Rich in essential vitamins such as B12, riboflavin, and selenium.
• Contains choline, important for brain health and function.

3. Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 ounces):

• Calories: 1,400
• Carbohydrates: 196g
• Fat: 56g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 196g

benefits:

• Adds creaminess and richness to the flan.
• Provides a significant amount of calories for energy.
• Contains calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

4. Whole Milk (2 cups):

• Calories: 300
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 16g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 24g

benefits:

• Good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• Provides high-quality protein for muscle health.
• Contains essential vitamins like A and D.

5. Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 37
• Carbohydrates: 1.6g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1.6g

benefits:

• Enhances the flavor profile of the flan with its sweet and aromatic notes.
• May have antioxidant properties.
• Adds depth to the overall taste experience.

Keep in mind that these values are based on standard nutritional information for common brands or generic products. If you have specific dietary concerns or are using specialty products, it's advisable to check the nutritional information on the product packaging for accurate details. Additionally, the serving size and number of servings will influence the nutritional content of individual portions.