How to make Portuguese Egg Custard
Leite Creme: Unveiling Portugal?s Creamy Delight
If you have a penchant for both wine and travel, you?re likely always on the lookout for delightful culinary experiences that echo the essence of the places you visit. Today, we invite you to indulge in the world of Portuguese desserts, with a special focus on the exquisite Leite Creme. This traditional Portuguese custard, rich and velvety, promises to captivate your senses and take you on a sweet journey through Portugal?s culinary landscape.
What is Leite Creme?
Leite Creme, also known as Portuguese Egg Custard or Portuguese Milk Custard, is a creamy dessert similar to the renowned creme brulee and Crema Catalana. This delightful treat features a luscious custard base made from milk, egg yolks, and sugar, topped with a caramelized sugar crust that adds a perfect hint of crunch to its smooth texture.
A Brief History of Leite Creme
Originating in Portugal, Leite Creme has been a staple dessert in Portuguese households and restaurants for centuries. It showcases the Portuguese knack for transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. The dessert is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings, making it a beloved part of Portuguese culinary heritage.
How many calories have a Leite Creme?
For those mindful of their dietary intake, it?s important to understand the nutritional content of Leite Creme. A typical serving of this Portuguese custard contains approximately 198 kcal, along with 23.52 grams of carbohydrates and 6.62 grams of protein. Knowing this, you can enjoy this delectable treat while keeping track of your nutritional goals.
Is Leite Creme a pudding?
Contrary to being a pudding, Leite Creme is classified as a custard. Unlike pudding, which typically has a thicker consistency achieved through the use of starch, Leite Creme gets its texture from the coagulation of eggs. It is essentially a luscious liquid that transforms into a creamy delight upon cooking. In the accompanying photo, you can observe Riann expertly caramelizing sugar, a crucial step in the preparation of this exquisite Portuguese custard.
How to Make Portuguese Egg Custard: An Authentic Recipe
Ready to try your hand at making this delightful dessert? Here?s an authentic recipe for Leite Creme that serves eight:
INGREDIENT (for eight people)
- One litter of milk
- Seven egg yolks
- 150g of sugar
- Two tablespoons of cornstarch flour
- Two lemon peels
- One cinnamon stick
- Sugar q. s.
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the milk (reserve a small amount to mix with cornstarch), lemon peel, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the cornstarch and the reserved milk.
- Gradually add the egg mixture to the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.
- Return the mixture to the stove and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it begins to bubble and thicken.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and discard the lemon peels and cinnamon stick.
- Pour the custard into individual serving dishes or a large platter and let it cool.
- Just before serving, sprinkle sugar on top of the custard and caramelize it using a kitchen torch or broiler until a crispy golden crust forms.
Alternative Toppings for Leite Creme
If the traditional caramelized sugar isn?t to your taste, consider dusting your Leite Creme with powdered cinnamon. This adds a warm, aromatic flavor that beautifully complements the custard?s rich texture.
Exploring the World of Portuguese Custards
Portuguese cuisine boasts a variety of custard-based desserts, each with its unique twist. Let?s explore some of these delightful treats:
Portuguese Egg Tart (Pastel de Nata)
Perhaps the most famous Portuguese dessert, Pastel de Nata, or Portuguese Egg Tart, features a flaky pastry shell filled with creamy custard and topped with a slightly burnt surface. This iconic treat is a must-try when visiting Portugal.
Leite Creme vs. Creme Brulee
While similar in appearance, Leite Creme and creme brulee have distinct differences. Leite Creme is thicker and creamier due to the use of cornstarch, whereas creme brulee relies solely on egg yolks for its texture. Both, however, offer a deliciously rich dessert experience.
Portuguese Custard Pudding
Another variation is the Portuguese Custard Pudding, known for its silky smooth texture and delicate flavor. This dessert often incorporates a hint of vanilla, adding an extra layer of sophistication.
The Perfect Pairing: Wine and Leite Creme
For those who love both wine and desserts, pairing Leite Creme with the right wine can elevate your tasting experience. Consider these options:
White Port
White Port, with its sweet and slightly nutty flavor, complements the creamy richness of Leite Creme beautifully. The wine?s acidity balances the dessert?s sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile.