Custard is a rich and creamy dessert that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries. It is often served on its own or used as a base for other desserts like fruit tarts or trifles. While traditional custard recipes call for the use of butter, there are alternatives for those who wish to avoid it. In this article, we will walk you through a basic custard recipe that is delicious and free from butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
2. While the milk is heating, in a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Once the milk is heated, slowly pour it into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This is called tempering, which helps prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and return it to the stove over medium heat. Continue to whisk the mixture slowly and consistently until it thickens. This process will take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Once the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat. Be careful not to overcook, as it may result in a lumpy texture.
6. Allow the custard to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a container or serving dishes.
7. For a smooth texture, you can strain the custard through a sieve to remove any lumps that may have formed during cooking.
8. Cover the custard with plastic wrap, allowing the plastic wrap to touch the surface. This will prevent a skin from forming on top.
9. Refrigerate the custard for at least 2 hours or until chilled. The custard will continue to thicken as it cools.
Now that you have your delicious custard without butter, there are endless ways you can enjoy it. Here are a few suggestions:
– Serve it as a classic dessert on its own, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or grated chocolate.
– Use it as a filling for tarts, pies, or cakes. Layer it with fresh fruits for an added burst of flavor.
– Create a trifle by layering the custard with sponge cake, fresh fruits, and whipped cream.
– Make custard-based ice cream by freezing the chilled custard in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In conclusion, making custard without butter is easy and just as delicious. By using simple ingredients like milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch, you can enjoy a creamy and comforting dessert that is suitable for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. So why wait? Give this butter-free custard recipe a try and savor a little taste of heaven on your spoon.