Haitian Flan

Haitian Flan Recipe - Delicious & Authentic Dessert

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Haitian Flan is a delicious and creamy dessert that is popular in Haitian cuisine. This sweet treat is made with simple ingredients like sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla. The caramelized sugar on the bottom gives this flan a rich and decadent flavor.

History

Flan has Spanish origins and was brought to Haiti during the colonial period. Over time, Haitian cooks put their own spin on the classic dessert by adding local ingredients and flavors. Today, Haitian Flan is a beloved dessert enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of sugar
2 beaten eggs
1 tsp of vanilla
13 oz (369 g) can of evaporated milk
dash of salt

How to prepare

In a small skillet, heat and stir 0.33 cup of sugar over medium heat until the sugar melts and becomes golden brown.
Quickly pour the sugar mixture into a 3.5 cup ring mold or four 6 oz (170 g) custard cups, tilting to coat the bottom and sides.
Combine eggs, evaporated milk, 0.25 cup of sugar, vanilla, and salt.
Pour the mixture into the caramel-coated mold or cups; set it in a baking pan on the oven rack.
Pour hot water around the mold or cups in the pan to a depth of 1 inch.
Bake in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 50 to 55 minutes (35 to 40 minutes for custard cups) or until a knife inserted halfway between the center and edge comes out clean.
Chill the custard.
Loosen the custard from the sides; if necessary, place the custard dish in hot water for a few seconds.
Invert the custard onto a platter or serving plates.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or rum extract to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.
Top the flan with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be careful when caramelizing the sugar, as it can burn quickly. Keep a close eye on it and stir constantly.

- Make sure to coat the mold or custard cups with the caramelized sugar evenly to ensure a beautiful presentation.

- To prevent lumps in the custard, slowly pour the evaporated milk mixture into the beaten eggs while whisking continuously.

Serving Suggestions

Haitian Flan can be served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Cooking Techniques

When baking the flan, use a water bath to ensure even cooking and prevent the custard from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular milk instead of evaporated milk in a pinch, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Make Ahead Tips

Haitian Flan can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the flan on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Haitian Flan pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the flan in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Haitian Flan contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Haitian Flan contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Haitian Flan contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Haitian Flan contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Haitian Flan is a good source of calcium and vitamin D due to the evaporated milk used in the recipe.

Alergens

Haitian Flan contains eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Haitian Flan is a rich and creamy dessert that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Haitian Flan is a classic dessert that is easy to make and full of rich, creamy flavor. With a caramelized sugar topping and a smooth custard filling, this dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy this sweet treat with friends and family for a taste of Haitian cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Haitian Flan. It was tucked away in an old recipe book that belonged to my great-grandmother, a treasured heirloom that had been passed down through the generations. As I carefully flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on the handwritten instructions for this decadent dessert, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had always been fascinated by the flavors and aromas of Caribbean cuisine, and Haitian Flan seemed like the perfect opportunity to delve into a new culinary adventure. The recipe called for simple ingredients - eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon - but I knew that the real magic lay in the technique and tradition behind it.

I reached out to my friend Marie, who hailed from Haiti and had a deep connection to the country's rich culinary heritage. She gladly agreed to teach me the ins and outs of making Haitian Flan, sharing stories of her own family's recipes and traditions along the way.

We started by caramelizing sugar in a heavy-bottomed pan, patiently stirring until it turned a deep amber hue. The scent of burnt sugar filled the air, mingling with the warm aroma of vanilla and cinnamon. Marie taught me how to carefully pour the caramel into the bottom of a baking dish, swirling it to coat the surface evenly.

Next came the custard, a delicate blend of eggs, sugar, and milk whisked together until smooth. Marie showed me how to strain the mixture to ensure a silky texture, free of any lumps or air bubbles. With a gentle hand, I poured the custard over the caramel, watching as it settled into a smooth layer on top.

As the flan baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that transported me to the sun-drenched shores of Haiti. Marie shared stories of her grandmother, who would make this dessert for special occasions and family gatherings, passing down the recipe with love and care.

When the flan emerged from the oven, golden and glistening with caramel, I knew that I had unlocked a hidden gem of Haitian cuisine. The custard was velvety and rich, with a subtle sweetness that lingered on the tongue. Each bite brought me closer to the heart and soul of a culture that valued food as a symbol of love and community.

I served the Haitian Flan to my family that evening, watching as their eyes lit up with delight at the first taste. The dessert was a triumph, a testament to the power of tradition and the joy of discovery in the kitchen. From that moment on, Haitian Flan became a beloved staple in our household, a reminder of the beauty and resilience of a country that had captured my heart.

In the years that followed, I continued to hone my skills in Haitian cuisine, exploring new recipes and techniques that celebrated the flavors of this vibrant culture. Each dish brought me closer to the roots of my heritage, connecting me to a past filled with love, laughter, and the simple pleasure of a shared meal.

As I look back on that fateful day when I found the recipe for Haitian Flan, I am filled with gratitude for the journey it set me on. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and connect with others, and this dessert has become a symbol of that passion and joy. I am forever grateful to my great-grandmother for passing down this recipe, and to Marie for sharing her knowledge and love of Haitian cuisine with me.

And so, I continue to cook and bake with a spirit of curiosity and adventure, knowing that each dish carries with it a story waiting to be told. In every bite, I taste the flavors of the past and the promise of the future, a reminder that the love we share through food transcends time and space. And for that, I am truly grateful.