Caramel Flan de Oaxaca

Introduction to Caramel Flan de Oaxaca

Caramel Flan de Oaxaca, a timeless dessert rooted in Mexico's rich culinary tradition, offers a delectable taste experience. The harmonious blend of creamy custard and luscious caramel sauce creates a dish that's both elegant and comforting. This dessert is particularly popular in the southern region of Oaxaca, renowned for its culinary diversity and vibrancy.

Historically, flan was introduced to Mexico by Spanish colonizers and was quickly embraced across the country, with each region adding its own unique flair. Oaxaca, with its deep cultural heritage, has added ingredients and techniques that make this flan a special variety.

In this recipe, we will explore how to make an authentic Caramel Flan de Oaxaca, highlighting its distinct ingredients and preparation techniques. This dessert not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also connects you to the deeply rooted culinary traditions of Mexico.

Ingredients

• Sugar - 1 cup (for caramel)
• Sugar - 3/4 cup (for custard)
• Whole Milk - 2 cups
• Eggs - 5 large
• Vanilla Extract - 1 tablespoon
• Sweetened Condensed Milk - 1 can (14 ounces)
• Evaporated Milk - 1 can (12 ounces)
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon

Special Tools

• 8-inch round baking dish
• Large roasting pan
• Kitchen whisk
• Aluminum foil
• Baking sheet

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of sugar. Continuously stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves, turning a golden amber color. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Be cautious not to burn the caramel as this can give it a bitter taste. Once perfectly caramelized, immediately pour it carefully into an 8-inch round baking dish, tilting the dish to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to allow the caramel to set while preparing the custard.

Step 2: Make the Flan Custard

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of sugar, 2 cups of whole milk, 5 eggs, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 can of evaporated milk. Whisk the mixture until well blended. Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly combined to create a smooth custard.

Step 3: Infuse Flavors

Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the custard mixture, melding a hint of spice which is characteristic of Oaxacan flavors. Continue whisking until the powder is completely integrated into the custard.

Cooking Process

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Gently pour the prepared custard over the set caramel in the baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning excessively while baking.

Step 5: Set Up a Bain-Marie

Place the covered baking dish into a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it comes halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This water bath, or bain-marie, provides gentle, even heating for the flan, ensuring that it cooks evenly and retains its creamy texture. Carefully place the roasting pan in the preheated oven.

Set the timer for 60 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

After 60 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil using tongs to avoid steam burns. Gently shake the dish; the flan should still have a slight jiggle in the center, similar to gelatin. Alternatively, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when the flan is done. If the flan isn't set, continue baking in 5-minute increments, checking between each interval.

Step 7: Cool the Flan

Once cooked, remove the dish from the water bath using oven mitts and let it cool on a wire rack. The flan should cool to room temperature, which can take about 1 hour. Refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance its flavors and set it completely.

Serving Suggestions

Step 8: Serve the Flan

Once fully chilled, run a knife around the edges of the dish to loosen the flan. Place a large, rimmed plate over the baking dish and quickly invert it to unmold the flan. The caramel will flow over the top, creating a glossy, enticing finish.

Slice the Caramel Flan de Oaxaca into wedges, serving it plain or garnishing with additional cinnamon or fruits such as strawberries or mango to complement the flan’s rich flavors.

How to Enjoy Caramel Flan de Oaxaca

Caramel Flan de Oaxaca is best enjoyed with a companion hot beverage like Mexican coffee or a spiced hot chocolate, deepening the wonderful layered flavors of the dessert. Its delightful texture and flavor make it a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it's a festive gathering or a quiet family dinner. Let each bite transport you to the heart of Oaxaca, savoring its culinary heritage.