Cajeta Enchilada
Cajeta Enchilada is a sweet and spicy Mexican dessert that beautifully combines the rich, creamy flavors of cajeta with a hint of chili for an unexpected twist. Originating from Mexican culinary tradition, this dish showcases the diversity of flavors that can be achieved when sweet meets heat. Originally, cajeta was created as a delicacy in the town of Celaya in the state of Guanajuato, where it is still celebrated today. The unique taste of cajeta, a caramel confection made from goat's milk, pairs perfectly with the spiciness of chili, making Cajeta Enchilada a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
- Cajeta - 2 cups
- Chili powder - 1 tablespoon
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Flour - 1 tablespoon
- Evaporated milk - 1 cup
- Sugar - 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
- Sea salt - A pinch
Preparation
- Start by placing a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and mix until it forms a paste. Cook for about 2 minutes, making sure not to brown the flour.
- Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk, creating a smooth mixture.
- Add the 2 cups of cajeta to the saucepan and stir until it's fully incorporated with the milk mixture.
- Incorporate the chili powder, stirring well to ensure an even distribution of spice.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. This should take about 5 minutes. If you require a more exact timing, consider setting a cooking timer to avoid scorching.
- Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Finally, add a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors. Stir well.
Cooking Process
The cooking process involves careful attention to heat and timing. It's essential to cook the mixture on low heat once all ingredients are combined to prevent burning and achieve the perfect consistency. The blend should be smooth, glossy, and of a thickened yet pourable texture, requiring frequent stirring.
How to Enjoy Cajeta Enchilada
Once the Cajeta Enchilada has cooled slightly, it's ready to enjoy. This dessert can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a topping over vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of cold and spice.
- Drizzled over pancakes or waffles for a breakfast with a kick.
- Paired with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas to complement the sweetness with freshness.
- Serve it with a side of warm churros where you can dip and savor the sweet, spicy combination.
For a special twist, try pairing it with a glass of warm milk, which enhances the creamy richness of the cajeta while soothing the mild spice of the chili powder.