Córdoba Malbec Flan

Introduction

The Córdoba Malbec Flan is a delightful twist on a traditional flan recipe, infused with the rich and deep flavors of a Malbec wine. This luscious dessert originates from the beautiful region of Córdoba, Argentina, known for its vibrant culinary heritage and exquisite wines. The fusion of sweet, creamy caramel custard with the bold notes of Malbec offers a unique gastronomic experience that captures the essence of Argentine culture. In addition to its captivating taste, the flan's velvety texture provides a captivating contrast that makes it a perfect ending to any meal. Whether you're savoring it with a glass of Malbec or enjoying it solo, this dessert promises to be a memorable culinary adventure.

Ingredients

• Sugar - 200g (for caramel)
• Eggs - 5 large
• Condensed Milk - 400g
• Whole Milk - 400ml
• Vanilla Extract - 1 tablespoon
• Malbec Wine - 100ml
• Sugar - 150g (for custard)

Preparation

Before starting, ensure you have all the ingredients ready. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and have a baking dish and a roasting pan for a water bath.

Step 1: Make the Caramel

In a saucepan, over medium heat, melt sugar (200g) until it turns golden brown. Carefully pour the caramel into the bottom of your baking dish, tilting to coat the base evenly. Allow it to cool and harden slightly while preparing the custard.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs until they are well beaten.
2. Add the condensed milk, whole milk, and sugar (150g), stirring until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Gently stir in the vanilla extract and Malbec wine, ensuring everything is mixed evenly.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
2. Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish (creating a water bath).
3. Bake the flan in the preheated oven for about 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
4. When done, remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Chill Thoroughly

Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the flan for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Serving

To serve the Córdoba Malbec Flan, carefully loosen the edges with a knife and invert it onto a serving plate. The caramel will create a beautiful sauce over the custard. Pair the flan with a chilled glass of Malbec to complement the rich and fruity notes of the dessert. Enjoy this elegant flan as a finale to an Argentine feast or at any festive occasion shared with friends and family.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure that the caramel is not too dark, as it may become bitter.
• For a smoother texture, strain the custard mixture before pouring it over the caramel.
• Use a cooking timer to avoid overcooking the flan and ensure perfect texture.
• Experiment with different Argentine wines to find your favorite flavor profile for this dessert.

Delight in the fusion of smooth, creamy custard and the aromatic complexity of Malbec in this Cordoban classic.