Leche Flan is a delicious Filipino dessert that is loved by many. This sweet and creamy caramel custard is a classic in Filipino cuisine and is usually made by steaming it in a mold. However, did you know that you can also cook Leche Flan in a rice cooker? Yes, you heard that right! In this article, we will share with you a quick and easy recipe on how to cook Leche Flan in a rice cooker.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first gather all the ingredients you will need to make this delectable dessert. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
– 10 large eggs
– 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 can of evaporated milk
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 3/4 cup of granulated sugar (for the caramel)
– Water (for the rice cooker)
Preparing the Rice Cooker
To begin, you’ll need to prepare your rice cooker. Start by plugging it in and ensuring that it is clean and in good working condition. Then, add water to the rice cooker, filling it about halfway. The water will be used for steaming the Leche Flan.
Making the Caramel
Next, let’s move on to making the caramel. Take a round mold, preferably aluminum or stainless steel, and place it on the stove over low heat. Add the granulated sugar to the mold and let it melt slowly. Stir the sugar occasionally to prevent it from burning. Once the sugar has completely melted and turned into a golden-brown caramel, remove it from the heat.
Preparing the Leche Flan Mixture
In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them gently until the yolks and whites are well combined. Then, pour in the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix the ingredients until they are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as it can create bubbles in your Leche Flan.
Cooking the Leche Flan
Now comes the exciting part – cooking the Leche Flan in your rice cooker! Take the mold with the caramel and pour the Leche Flan mixture into it. Gently tap the mold on the counter to release any air bubbles that may have formed.
Carefully place the mold inside the rice cooker, making sure it is stable and not tilted. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “Cook” mode or the equivalent setting for steaming. Let it steam for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the Leche Flan is set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick or a knife into the center – if it comes out clean, the Leche Flan is ready!
Cooling and Serving
Once the Leche Flan is cooked, carefully remove the mold from the rice cooker using oven mitts or a towel. Let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator. Allow the Leche Flan to chill for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
When you’re ready to serve the Leche Flan, take a sharp knife and run it around the edges of the mold to loosen the custard. Place a serving plate on top of the mold, then quickly and carefully flip it over. Gently lift the mold, allowing the caramel sauce to cascade beautifully over the Leche Flan.
Tips for a Perfect Leche Flan in a Rice Cooker
– Make sure your rice cooker is clean before using it for this recipe. Any residue or odors from previous cooking may affect the taste of the Leche Flan.
– Use fresh eggs for a rich and creamy texture. If possible, opt for free-range eggs for an even more flavorful custard.
– Be patient when making the caramel. Slowly melting the sugar over low heat will help prevent it from burning and ensure a smooth sauce.
– When mixing the Leche Flan ingredients, gently whisk them together to avoid incorporating too much air into the mixture. This will result in a dense and silky custard.
– Steaming time may vary depending on your rice cooker, so it’s a good idea to check on the Leche Flan occasionally after the 45-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
– To achieve the perfect consistency, allow the Leche Flan to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This will allow the custard to set and develop its distinct flavors.
Conclusion
Cooking Leche Flan in a rice cooker is not only quick and easy but also yields incredibly delicious results. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delectable Filipino dessert right in the comfort of your home. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, prepare your rice cooker, and whip up a batch of creamy Leche Flan today!