Apple Crème Caramel with Fig Sauce
17/11/2023Here is an Italian version of the Apple Crème Caramel with Fig Sauce. Remember that this is a variation of the classic crème caramel with the addition of typical Italian fruits like apples and figs.
Ingredients
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For the crème caramel:
- 4 eggs
- 500 ml of milk
- 100 g of sugar
- 1 apple (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- 1 vanilla pod
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For the caramel:
- 150 g of sugar
- Water as needed
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For the fig sauce:
- 200 g of fresh or dried figs
- 50 g of sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Preparation
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Start by preparing the caramel. In a saucepan, pour the sugar with a bit of water and cook until the sugar turns golden. Pour the caramel into crème caramel molds and rotate the molds to evenly cover the base.
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For the crème caramel, whisk the eggs with the sugar until you get a light and fluffy mixture. Heat the milk with the split vanilla pod over medium heat without bringing to a boil and then let it cool down.
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Meanwhile, peel and dice the apple into small cubes. Place the apple pieces in the molds on top of the caramel.
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Remove the vanilla pod from the milk and pour it slowly onto the egg and sugar mixture, stirring continuously.
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Pour the mixture into the milk in the molds over the apple pieces and caramel.
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Bake in a water bath in a preheated oven at 160ºC for about 40-45 minutes or until the cream is set. Allow to cool then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
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For the fig sauce, if using dried figs you should first rehydrate them in hot water for a few hours. Put the figs in a small saucepan with sugar, lemon juice, a bit of water, and cinnamon if using. Cook over low heat until the figs are soft and the sauce has reduced.
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Blend the sauce until smooth. If necessary, you can add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.
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To serve, gently invert the crème caramels onto a serving plate and accompany with the fig sauce on the side or poured over.
Curiosity
Crème caramel is a classic dessert that originated in France, but it has been adopted and adapted by many international cuisines. Adding fruits like apples and figs enriches it and gives it a special touch, making the dessert fresher and lighter. In Italy, we often use local products to give a personal touch to recipes from other cultures. The combination of apples and figs is an example of how simple ingredients can transform a dish and make it unique.