Rabanadas
Rabanadas Recipe from Portugal - Sugar, Milk, Rum, Eggs, Butter, Confectioner's Sugar, Cinnamon
Introduction
Tocino del Cielo, which translates to "Heavenly Bacon" in Spanish, is a traditional Spanish dessert that is similar to flan but with a richer and denser texture. This decadent dessert is made with simple ingredients like sugar, water, egg yolks, and vanilla, but the end result is a sweet and creamy treat that is sure to impress.
History
Tocino del Cielo has its origins in Spain and is believed to have been created by nuns in convents during the 16th century. The dessert was often made using leftover egg yolks from making communion wafers, and the name "Heavenly Bacon" is said to refer to the rich and indulgent nature of the dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp of sugar
- 0.5 cup of warm milk
- 0.25 cup of rum
- 8 slices of white bread from square loaf
- 2 beaten eggs
- 4 tbsp of butter
- confectioner's sugar
- Ground cinnamon
How to prepare
- Mix the sugar, milk, and rum.
- Soak the bread in this mixture.
- Lift each slice carefully with a wide spatula and dip it in beaten egg to cover both sides.
- Carefully transfer each slice to a frying pan in which plenty of butter is quietly sizzling.
- Fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.
Variations
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the flan mixture for a boozy twist.
- Top the Tocino del Cielo with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the sugar and water mixture until it forms a light syrup to ensure the right consistency for the dessert.
- Using a double boiler to cook the flan mixture will help prevent it from curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Let the syrup cool before adding the egg yolks to prevent them from cooking too quickly and becoming scrambled.
Serving Suggestions
Tocino del Cielo can be served chilled or at room temperature, and is delicious on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Techniques
Using a double boiler to cook the flan mixture will help ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Tocino del Cielo can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Tocino del Cielo in individual ramekins for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Tocino del Cielo with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Tocino del Cielo in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Tocino del Cielo contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Tocino del Cielo contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Tocino del Cielo contains approximately 6 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Tocino del Cielo contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Tocino del Cielo is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Tocino del Cielo contains eggs.
Summary
Tocino del Cielo is a high-carb, moderate-fat dessert that is rich in flavor and texture.
Summary
Tocino del Cielo is a heavenly dessert that is rich, creamy, and indulgent. With a history dating back to the 16th century, this Spanish treat is sure to impress your guests with its decadent flavor and texture.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Rabanadas. It was a cold winter evening, and I had just returned home from a long day at work. As I walked through the front door, I was greeted by the warm and comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air.
My mother was busy in the kitchen, a twinkle in her eye as she stirred a pot of simmering milk on the stove. "Come here, my dear," she beckoned me over. "I have something special to show you."
Curious, I made my way to the kitchen, where my mother handed me a tattered old notebook filled with handwritten recipes. "This," she said, pointing to a page with a faded title that read "Rabanadas," "is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. I want you to learn how to make it."
Intrigued, I eagerly began to read the recipe. It called for a loaf of day-old bread, sliced thick and soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, cinnamon, and sugar before being fried until golden brown. The finished dish would then be sprinkled with more cinnamon and sugar and served warm.
As I followed the instructions, my mother guided me every step of the way, sharing stories of her own mother and grandmother who had also made Rabanadas in their kitchens. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and technique, determined to master this cherished family recipe.
After what seemed like hours of preparation, I finally sat down at the table to sample my creation. The Rabanadas were crispy on the outside, yet soft and custardy on the inside, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the flavors that reminded me of home and childhood.
From that moment on, Rabanadas became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for special occasions like Christmas and Easter, or simply as a comforting treat on a cold winter's night. Each time I prepared them, I would think of my mother and grandmother, and the generations of women who had lovingly passed down this recipe.
Over the years, I continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own twist by incorporating orange zest or a splash of brandy to the egg mixture. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all marveled at the delicious simplicity of this traditional Portuguese dessert.
As time went on, I collected more recipes from various places and people, each one adding to my repertoire of culinary delights. But no matter how many new dishes I learned to make, Rabanadas remained a beloved favorite that never failed to bring joy and comfort to those who tasted them.
Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of my own home, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through the generations. And I know that as long as I continue to make Rabanadas, I will always carry a piece of my family's history and traditions with me.