How to prepare custard - Christmas recipes

Christmas in Colombia is a magical time full of traditions, joy and, of course, delicious food. One of the most emblematic delicacies of the Christmas season in this country is custard. This creamy and sweet dessert is an essential element on the Colombian Christmas table and has become a culinary tradition rooted in the heart of the country's culture.

The Meaning of Custard in Colombian Christmas
Before we dive into the recipe, it is important to understand the meaning that custard has in Colombian Christmas. This dessert is not just a mixture of milk, sugar and spices; It is a symbol of union, tradition and family. Custard is shared throughout the country during the Christmas season, and its preparation is a social event in itself. Colombian families gather around the kitchen to prepare this sweet delicacy together, passing down the recipes from generation to generation.

In Colombia, natilla is traditionally served alongside buñuelos, another delicious snack of the Christmas season. The combination of custard and fritters is an explosion of flavors and textures that summarize the joy and generosity of Christmas. In addition, you cannot miss the final touch of cinnamon sprinkled on top, which adds a comforting aroma and an unmistakable flavor.

Ingredients for Colombian Custard

Before starting the recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here is a list of what you will need:

For the Custard:

• 1 liter of fresh milk
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup grated fresh cheese
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For decoration:
• Cinnamon powder (optional)
• Grated coconut (optional)

Step by Step Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's follow the steps to prepare a delicious Colombian custard.

Step 1: Preparation of the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. This will facilitate the process and avoid setbacks.

Step 2: Dissolve the Cornstarch

In a cup, dissolve the cornstarch in 1/2 cup of milk. Make sure there are no lumps and reserve this mixture.

Step 3: Infuse the Milk

In a large saucepan, pour the liter of fresh milk and add the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to medium heat and heat it without boiling. This will allow the cinnamon to infuse its flavor into the milk.

Step 4: Add the Sugar and Cornstarch

Once the milk is hot, add the sugar and cornstarch mixture you previously prepared. Stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to make the mixture thick and smooth.

Step 5: Add the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Then, slowly pour some of the hot milk mixture into the yolks while continuing to whisk. This is known as "tempering" the yolks and prevents them from cooking too quickly. Then, add this yolk mixture to the saucepan with the milk and cornstarch.

Step 6: Cook on Low Heat

Lower the heat to low and cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. This may take approximately 30-40 minutes. The custard is ready when it has a consistency similar to that of a thick pudding.

Step 7: Add the Cheese and Condensed Milk

Once the custard has the desired consistency, remove the cinnamon stick and add the grated fresh cheese and condensed milk. Continue cooking over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and the custard is golden brown.

Step 8: Add Vanilla Essence and Salt

Finally, add the vanilla essence and salt. Stir well so that all the flavors mix evenly.

Step 9: Serve and Decorate

Pour the custard into individual cups or a large serving bowl. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or until completely cold.

Before serving, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon powder or grated coconut on top to give it an extra touch of flavor and decoration.

Tips and Variations

If you want a thicker custard, you can increase the amount of cornstarch, but keep in mind that this will also make it thicker when it cools.
You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your personal preference. If you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar.
If you don't have fresh cheese on hand, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a similar texture.