Chilean Leche Asada is a beloved dessert in Chile, reminiscent of crème brûlée with its creamy, custard-like texture and caramelized top. This classic treat combines whole milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, baked to a golden perfection in a water bath. The result is a smooth, rich dessert that’s served chilled and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Although high in calories, Leche Asada is also packed with protein and calcium, making it a satisfying treat when enjoyed in moderation.
Leche Asada, translating to "roasted milk" in Spanish, has its roots in traditional Chilean cuisine. The dessert reflects the country’s culinary fondness for simple, comforting sweets made from staple ingredients. It showcases the Chilean penchant for creating delectable treats from minimal resources, offering a taste of the country's rich gastronomic heritage.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually mix the cooled milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate lumps.
6. Pour the mixture into a ceramic or glass baking dish.
7. Place the dish in a larger pan filled with about an inch of hot water.
8. Bake for 60-75 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
11. Before serving, sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
Notes:
- To avoid burning, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes, then remove the foil for the remaining baking time.
- Alternatively, cook on the stovetop using a water bath: place the dish in a larger pot with simmering water and cook over low heat for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition Value:
1. 4 cups whole milk
- calories: Approximately 600-640 calories
- carbohydrates: About 48 grams
- protein: Approximately 32 grams
- fat: Around 32 grams
- sodium: Roughly 480 milligrams
- cholesterol: Approximately 120 milligrams
- vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, D, and B12
- minerals: High in calcium and phosphorus
- nutritional benefit: Whole milk provides essential nutrients for bone health, supports muscle function, and contains beneficial fats that are vital for overall health.
2. 1 cup sugar
- calories: Approximately 774 calories
- carbohydrates: About 200 grams
- protein: 0 grams
- fat: 0 grams
- sodium: 0 milligrams
- cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- vitamins: None
- minerals: None
- nutritional benefit: While sugar provides a quick source of energy, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high caloric content and lack of essential nutrients.
3. 6 eggs
- calories: Approximately 420 calories
- carbohydrates: About 3 grams
- protein: Approximately 36 grams
- fat: Around 28 grams
- sodium: Roughly 420 milligrams
- cholesterol: Approximately 1,122 milligrams
- vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, B2 (riboflavin), and B12
- minerals: High in selenium, iron, and zinc
- nutritional benefit: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and important vitamins and minerals that support brain health, vision, and overall cellular function.
4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
- calories: Approximately 12 calories
- carbohydrates: About 0.5 grams
- protein: 0 grams
- fat: 0 grams
- sodium: Roughly 2 milligrams
- cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- vitamins: None
- minerals: None
- nutritional benefit: Vanilla extract is primarily used for flavoring and has minimal nutritional impact. However, it can enhance the taste of dishes, making them more enjoyable.
5. ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- calories: Approximately 6 calories per teaspoon
- carbohydrates: About 2 grams
- protein: 0 grams
- fat: 0 grams
- sodium: 0 milligrams
- cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- vitamins: Small amounts of vitamin A
- minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium, iron, and manganese
- nutritional benefit: Cinnamon adds a rich flavor and aroma to dishes. It also has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
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