Custard (Crème Anglaise)

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Custard (Crème Anglaise)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and half of the granulated sugar.
  • If using a vanilla bean, add the split bean and seeds to the mixture. If using vanilla extract, add it later.

2. Heat the Milk Mixture:

  • Heat the milk and cream mixture over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat.

3. Mix the Egg Yolks:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.

4. Temper the Egg Yolks:

  • Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the yolks (this prevents them from curdling).
  • Gradually add the rest of the hot milk mixture, continuing to whisk.

5. Cook the Custard:

  • Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula.
  • Cook until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil.

6. Strain the Custard:

  • If you used a vanilla bean, remove it.
  • Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits and ensure a smooth texture.

7. Cool and Serve:

  • If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
  • Allow the custard to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 2 hours.

Serving Suggestions:

  • As a Sauce: Serve chilled or slightly warmed over desserts like cakes, fruit tarts, or pies.
  • As a Dessert Base: Use as a base for making ice cream or other custard-based desserts.
  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or other fruits for a light and elegant dessert.

Enjoy your smooth and creamy Crème Anglaise! This classic custard sauce is versatile and adds a luxurious touch to many desserts.