Vanilla Egg Custard (Steamed)

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:

  1. Whisk the eggs:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk 3 eggs until well beaten.
  2. Add sugar and salt:
    • Gradually whisk in ⅓ cup sugar and ¼ tsp salt into the eggs until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add milk and vanilla:
    • Stir in 1 cup milk and 1 tsp vanilla essence. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined.
  4. Prepare the mold:
    • Grease a 6-inch mold or heatproof dish with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. 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.
  6. Pop the bubbles:
    • Gently pop any bubbles that form on the surface of the mixture to achieve a smooth top after steaming.
  7. 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.
  8. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. How do I avoid bubbles in the custard?
    • Strain the mixture before steaming and pop any bubbles on the surface before cooking.
  5. 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.