Coconut Custard

Coconut Custard Recipe from Cambodia - Indulge in Luscious Dessert

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Coconut custard is a delicious and creamy dessert that is perfect for those who love the tropical flavor of coconut. This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the sweetness of sugar and the lightness of eggs to create a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing.

History

Coconut custard has a long history in many tropical cultures, where coconuts are a staple ingredient in cooking. The combination of coconut milk and eggs has been used for centuries to create creamy and decadent desserts that are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

8 fl oz (250 ml) thick coconut milk
1 tsp (5 ml) rosewater
8 oz (240 g) sugar
0.5 tsp (2.5 ml) salt
3 eggs, lightly beaten (use whites only, if you have some to use up)

How to prepare

Dissolve the sugar in the coconut milk, then add the rosewater and salt. Stir well.
Add the eggs (or beat egg whites) and mix thoroughly.
Pour the resulting custard into a bowl or a scooped out pumpkin, squash shell, or coconut.
Place the mixture in the top of a preheated steamer and cook for 30 minutes, or until set.

Variations

For a richer custard, you can add a splash of coconut cream or a tablespoon of butter to the mixture before cooking.
To add a tropical twist, you can sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the custard before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to dissolve the sugar completely in the coconut milk before adding the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy custard.

- If you prefer a lighter custard, you can use only egg whites instead of whole eggs in this recipe.

- To prevent the custard from curdling, be sure to cook it gently over low heat and stir constantly to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut custard can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert, or paired with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is the best cooking technique for coconut custard, as it allows the custard to cook gently and evenly without curdling. Be sure to use a steamer basket or a double boiler to prevent the custard from coming into direct contact with the heat source.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have rosewater on hand, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or almond extract for a different flavor profile. You can also use coconut sugar or honey as a natural sweetener instead of white sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Coconut custard can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the custard with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out, and reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, you can garnish the coconut custard with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or top it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache. You can also serve the custard in individual ramekins or dessert cups for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Coconut custard pairs well with tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, or passion fruit. It also goes well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting and satisfying dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store leftover coconut custard, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in a microwave-safe dish and heat on low power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 0g

- Sugars: 38g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 10g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Total Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

- Vitamin C: 0%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 6%

Alergens

Contains eggs and coconut milk

Summary

Coconut custard is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good source of protein. It is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary at her cozy little cottage by the sea. We spent the morning picking fresh coconuts from her lush garden, and as we sat down to lunch, she brought out a delectable dessert that she had whipped up in her quaint kitchen - Coconut Custard.

I had never tasted anything like it before - the creamy texture, the sweet coconut flavor, and the hint of vanilla all blended together perfectly. Mary saw the look of delight on my face and laughed, saying it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She promised to teach me how to make it, and so began my journey into the world of Coconut Custard.

Mary showed me how to crack open a coconut and extract the sweet, tender flesh inside. She taught me how to grate the coconut and extract the rich, creamy milk that would form the base of the custard. We spent hours in her kitchen, measuring out ingredients, stirring the mixture over a gentle flame, and finally pouring it into individual ramekins to set.

As we waited for the custard to cool, Mary regaled me with stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her the recipe many years ago. She spoke of lazy afternoons spent in the kitchen, learning the art of cooking and baking from the woman who had raised her with love and care. I could see the fondness in her eyes as she shared these memories, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to learn from her.

When the custard was finally ready, we took our first bite and savored the rich, velvety texture and the sweet, tropical flavor. Mary smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride, and I knew that I had found a new favorite dessert. From that day on, Coconut Custard became a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the special bond that can be formed over a shared love of food and tradition.

Over the years, I have made Coconut Custard for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Mary's kitchen, where the aroma of coconut and vanilla filled the air and the sound of laughter echoed off the walls. I have come to realize that recipes are more than just a list of ingredients and instructions - they are a connection to the past, a way to honor the memories and traditions of those who came before us.

As I grow older, I find myself passing down the recipe for Coconut Custard to my own grandchildren, sharing with them the joy and wonder of creating something delicious from scratch. I watch with pride as they carefully measure out the ingredients, stir the mixture with gentle hands, and eagerly wait for the custard to set. And when they take their first bite, their faces lighting up with delight, I know that I have succeeded in passing on a piece of my own history to the next generation.

So whenever I make Coconut Custard now, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and love for all the people who have shared their recipes and their stories with me. Each spoonful is a reminder of the beauty of tradition, the power of food to bring us together, and the importance of passing down our culinary heritage to those we hold dear. And for that, I am eternally grateful.