Tango Flan

The Tango Flan is a delicious twist on the traditional caramel flan. Originating from the vibrant streets of Argentina, this dessert embodies the passion and rhythm of the tango dance, both in its preparation and its rich, smooth flavor. As the tango music captures the heart with its beats, so does this dessert with its creamy texture and caramel sweetness. The flan has a special place in Latin American cuisine, often enjoyed during celebrations and family gatherings. The Tango Flan, specifically, holds a cultural significance as it brings a touch of elegance and an exquisite blend of flavors that could make anyone fall in love with Argentine cuisine.

Ingredients

• Sugar
• Water
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla Extract
• Orange Zest

Preparation

1. To begin, gather all your ingredients to create the sugar caramel. You will need a heavy-bottom saucepan to combine the 200 grams of sugar with 60 ml of water.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the sugar to melt, stirring occasionally, until it turns a rich amber color. Be attentive, as the caramel can burn quickly.
3. Once your caramel reaches the desired color, carefully pour it into the bottom of a flan mold, tilting the mold to cover the base evenly.
4. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) as you begin preparing the custard base.

Making the Custard

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until they are fully blended.
2. Gradually add 500 ml of milk, continuing to whisk as you pour in the milk to ensure even distribution.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the freshly grated zest of one orange to the mixture. The orange zest will bring a zesty, aromatic hint to your Tango Flan.
4. If desired, add 50 grams of additional sugar to sweeten the custard, blending it thoroughly into the mixture.

Combining and Baking

1. Pour the custard mixture over the set caramel in your flan mold.
2. Place the mold into a baking dish, creating a water bath by filling the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the flan mold. This technique, known as a bain-marie, ensures gentle, even cooking.
3. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes. The custard should be set but still wobble slightly in the center when done.
4. Remove the flan from the oven and allow it to cool in the water bath before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, run a knife around the edges of the flan to release it from the mold. Invert onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful caramel top.

Enjoying Tango Flan

Your Tango Flan is now ready to serve. Pair this delightful treat with a cup of espresso or a chilled glass of dessert wine, such as a Moscato d'Asti, to complement its sweet notes. Serve slices with a garnish of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its luxurious feel. As you savor each bite, let the flavors transport you to the enchantment of an Argentine night, with memories evoking the passionate rhythm of the tango dance.

Timing and Tips

To perfect this dance-themed delight, keep a close eye on your cooking timer in each stage of preparation. Patience in cooling and setting the flan is essential for achieving the ideal creamy texture, ensuring that your final dish is as graceful as a carefully executed tango step.