This Vanilla Egg Custard is a silky, smooth, and light dessert that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. The custard is steamed to perfection, resulting in a delicate texture. It’s flavored with vanilla, giving it a simple yet delicious taste. Ideal as a refreshing dessert, this recipe can be made ahead and served chilled.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- Oil (for greasing the mold)
Directions:
- Whisk the eggs:
- In a medium bowl, whisk 3 eggs until well beaten.
- Add sugar and salt:
- Gradually whisk in ⅓ cup sugar and ¼ tsp salt into the eggs until the sugar dissolves.
- Add milk and vanilla:
- Stir in 1 cup milk and 1 tsp vanilla essence. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Prepare the mold:
- Grease a 6-inch mold or heatproof dish with oil to prevent sticking.
- Strain the mixture:
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine sieve into the greased mold. This will remove any lumps or foam, ensuring a smooth custard.
- Pop the bubbles:
- Gently pop any bubbles that form on the surface of the mixture to achieve a smooth top after steaming.
- Steam the custard:
- Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Place the mold with the custard mixture in the steamer, cover, and steam over medium heat for 35-40 minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the custard is ready.
- Cool and refrigerate:
- Once cooked, remove the mold from the steamer and let the custard cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the custard to fully set and chill before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled as a light dessert after meals.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh fruits like berries, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Straining the mixture is crucial for a smooth, lump-free custard.
- Make sure not to over-steam the custard, as it can become rubbery.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
- For a richer custard, substitute whole milk with evaporated milk or cream.
- If you don’t have a steamer, you can create a water bath by placing the mold in a large pot with a lid and filling it with boiling water halfway up the sides of the mold.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein-rich: Eggs provide a good source of protein.
- Calcium boost: Milk adds calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Low in fat: This custard uses minimal fat and is relatively light compared to baked custards.
- Simple ingredients: Made with basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is free from artificial additives.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
- Nut-Free: This recipe does not contain nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate for 1 serving):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store the custard in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze custard, as the texture may change when thawed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and quick: With minimal ingredients and effort, this custard is an easy go-to dessert.
- Light and refreshing: The vanilla flavor and smooth texture make it a perfect dessert for hot days.
- Customizable: Add toppings or flavors like caramel, chocolate, or fruit to make it your own.
- Make-ahead: This custard can be prepared in advance, making it convenient for gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion:
This Vanilla Egg Custard is a delicate, smooth, and creamy dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With just a few simple ingredients, this custard is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special event or a casual family meal. The refreshing vanilla flavor and light texture make it a must-try dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different milk in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or evaporated milk for a richer flavor, but the texture may vary slightly.
- How do I know when the custard is done steaming?
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the custard; if it comes out clean, the custard is done. If it still has liquid, steam for a few more minutes.
- Can I add other flavors?
- Absolutely! You can add a splash of almond extract, cinnamon, or even a bit of citrus zest for added flavor.
- How do I avoid bubbles in the custard?
- Strain the mixture before steaming and pop any bubbles on the surface before cooking.
- Can I make this custard in the oven?
- Yes, you can bake it in a water bath at 160°C (325°F) for about 30-40 minutes, or until set.