The Best Mexican flan

Mexican flan, also known simply as “flan,” is a popular dessert in Mexican cuisine. It is a creamy and smooth caramel custard that is both sweet and slightly savory. The dish has Spanish origins but has become a beloved dessert in Mexico and in many other parts of the world. It is a dessert that embodies elegance, simplicity and a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Just one bite of this creamy dessert will leave you wanting more! Flan is the perfect way to end an evening with friends or family. It's sure to impress everyone at your table. Prepare your taste buds for an incredible journey that will whisk you away to the lively streets of Mexico! 

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Mexican flan Ingredients:

The magic of Mexican flan begins with a handful of humble ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors and textures:

Custard:

• Eggs: medium
• Sugar
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract

Caramel: 

• Sugar
• Water
• Orange juice

How to cook Mexican Flan?

1. Preparing the Caramel: Combine sugar, water, and orange juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it turns into a rich, dark caramel color. Remove from heat and set aside. Pour the caramel into an 8-inch round rubber mold, ensuring even coverage on the bottom and sides.
2. Making the Custard: Prepare and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a high-speed blender, combine eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. Pour this mixture over the slightly hardened caramel. Cover the mold with foil.
3. Assembling and Baking: Pour the custard mixture over the slightly hardened caramel in the mold. Cover the mold with foil. Fill a large pan with warm water (enough to fit the mold), about ⅔ full. Place the mold with the flan in the water-filled pan and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
4. Cooling and Chilling: Allow the flan to cool to room temperature. Chill it in the fridge for 6 hours before serving.
5. Unmolding and Serving: Run a butter knife along the edges of the mold. Place a serving plate on top of the mold and invert it to release the flan. Slice and serve with fresh berries. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Flan!

How to store Mexican Flan?

• Allow it to Cool: Let the flan cool down to room temperature after it's been served.
• Cover with Plastic Wrap or Foil: Cover the dish with a layer of plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure it's sealed tightly to prevent any air from getting in.
• Refrigerate: Place the covered flan in the refrigerator. It's best to store it in the same dish it was originally made in.
• Label and Date: If you have multiple dishes in your fridge, label the flan with the date so you can keep track of how long it's been stored.
• Consume Within 2-3 Days: Mexican flan typically stays good in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. After this time, the quality may start to deteriorate.
• Avoid Freezing: It's generally not recommended to freeze flan. The custard texture may change and it might not be as enjoyable when thawed.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftover flan, simply remove it from the fridge, remove the wrap, and serve it chilled. Remember to discard any portion that looks or smells off or unusual.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the meaning of flan in Mexico?

In Mexico, when people talk about “flan,” they're talking about a delicious dessert that's very popular. It's a sweet, creamy dish made from eggs, milk, and sugar, and it has a smooth, velvety texture. The caramel sauce on top makes it extra special, which adds a sticky, sugary flavor.

This dessert is enjoyed by families and friends in Mexico, and it's often served during celebrations or as a tasty treat. So, when you hear the word “flan” in Mexico, you can imagine a delightful dessert that brings smiles to people's faces.

Is flan a Mexican or Filipino dessert?

Flan is a dessert that is enjoyed in both Mexican and Filipino cuisines. It has a presence in the culinary traditions of both countries, and each has its own unique variations of the dish.

In Mexico, flan is a well-loved dessert and is considered a classic part of Mexican cuisine. It is often made with a rich caramel sauce and a creamy custard base. Mexican flan is a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions.

In the Philippines, flan, known as “leche flan,” is a beloved dessert with a similar concept but has its own distinct preparation. Filipino leche flan typically includes condensed milk, egg yolks, and sometimes calamansi juice for flavor. It is often steamed and served with a caramelized syrup.

So, while flan is enjoyed in both Mexican and Filipino cuisines, the specific variations and preparation methods can differ between the two countries.

What are the cultural influences of flan?

Flan, a delicious dessert, has influenced cultures around the world. Its roots can be traced back to ​ancient Rome, where it was a savory dish made with eggs. As the ​Romans expanded, they introduced it to new lands, where it eventually became a sweet treat. 

The ​Spanish played a big role by adding caramel sauce, making it even sweeter. When the Spanish arrived in ​Latin America, they brought flan with them, and it became a popular dessert, especially in Mexico.

Latin Americans added their own flavors, like coffee, chocolate, and coconut, making unique variations. European countries also had similar desserts like crème caramel and crema caramella. As flan traveled, it blended with local traditions, incorporating indigenous ingredients and flavors. 

Today, flan is loved worldwide and can be found on menus in many countries. Its cultural journey reflects the influence of Rome, Spain, Latin America, Europe, indigenous cultures, and its global popularity.