Flan de Caramelo Recipe from Panama

Flan de Caramelo

Flan de Caramelo Recipe from Panama
Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Flan de Caramelo
Flan de Caramelo

Flan de Caramelo is a classic dessert that originated in Spain and has since become popular in many Latin American countries. This creamy custard topped with a sweet caramel sauce is a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Flan de Caramelo has a long history that dates back to ancient Rome, where it was known as "flado" and was made with honey instead of sugar. The recipe was later brought to Spain by the Moors and eventually made its way to Latin America through colonization. Today, it is a beloved dessert enjoyed by many around the world.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In the upper pan of a double boiler, combine the sugar with 0.25 cup of water to make a caramel.
  2. Mix the milk, eggs, vanilla, and sugar together, then pour the mixture into the caramel-coated pan.
  3. Place the pan over a double boiler and cover it.
  4. Cook the custard over medium heat for 1 hour, or until it is set.
  5. Allow the custard to cool completely, then refrigerate it.
  6. Once chilled, invert the custard onto a serving dish and serve.

Variations

  • Add a splash of rum or brandy to the custard for a boozy twist.
  • Top the flan with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the caramel until it reaches a deep amber color to ensure a rich flavor.

- Use a double boiler to cook the custard slowly and evenly, preventing it from curdling.

- Allow the custard to cool completely before refrigerating to ensure a smooth texture.

- To easily invert the flan onto a serving dish, run a knife around the edges of the pan before flipping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Flan de Caramelo chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect Flan de Caramelo is to cook the custard slowly and evenly over a double boiler to prevent curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole milk instead of evaporated milk for a creamier texture.

- Substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the flan.

Make Ahead Tips

Flan de Caramelo can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Flan de Caramelo in individual ramekins for a beautiful presentation, or garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Flan de Caramelo with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine for a delightful end to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Flan de Caramelo in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in a warm water bath until it reaches room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Flan de Caramelo contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Flan de Caramelo contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Flan de Caramelo contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Flan de Caramelo contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Flan de Caramelo is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Flan de Caramelo contains dairy and eggs.

Summary

Flan de Caramelo is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins.

Summary

Flan de Caramelo is a decadent dessert with a rich history and a delicious flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a creamy custard that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this classic treat on its own or with your favorite toppings for a sweet ending to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my aunt Maria clean out her kitchen cabinets. As we sorted through old recipe cards and cookbooks, I stumbled upon a faded piece of paper tucked away in the back of a drawer. Curious, I unfolded it and saw the words "Flan de Caramelo" written in beautiful cursive handwriting.

I had never heard of Flan de Caramelo before, but the ingredients listed on the paper intrigued me. I could almost taste the creamy custard topped with rich caramel sauce just by reading the recipe. Excited to try something new, I asked my aunt about it, and she smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down from her abuela.

That evening, I went home with the recipe in hand, eager to recreate the delicious dessert. I gathered all the ingredients – eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla – and set to work in the kitchen. As I whisked the eggs and sugar together, the sweet aroma filled the air, bringing back memories of baking with my own grandmother when I was a little girl.

Once the custard mixture was ready, I poured it into a caramel-coated mold and placed it in the oven to bake. As it cooked, the flan slowly transformed into a golden, jiggly dessert that looked almost too beautiful to eat. When it was finally done, I let it cool before flipping it onto a serving platter.

The moment I took my first bite of the Flan de Caramelo, I knew I had found something special. The silky smooth custard melted in my mouth, and the caramel sauce added a rich, decadent flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. It was the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, and I couldn't believe I had never tried it before.

From that day on, Flan de Caramelo became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I made it, I thought about the mysterious person who had written down the recipe all those years ago, and I felt a connection to them through the delicious dessert they had created.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Flan de Caramelo to the next generation. I taught my own grandchildren how to make it, just as my aunt Maria had taught me. And each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and joy knowing that I was carrying on a cherished family recipe.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the story of how I learned to make Flan de Caramelo, I am filled with gratitude for the moments spent in the kitchen, the recipes shared with me, and the memories created through food. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, and this recipe in particular holds a special place in my heart.

I may never know the full history of Flan de Caramelo or the person who first created it, but I am grateful for the chance to bring a little piece of their story into my own life. And as I take another bite of the creamy, decadent dessert, I know that the memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always remain fresh in my mind.

Categories

| Dessert Flan Recipes | Egg Recipes | Evaporated Milk Recipes | Panamanian Desserts | Panamanian Recipes |

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