Natilla al Ron - Spanish Rum Custard

Ingredients

• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk 4 cups (946ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) rum 1/2 cup (120ml) rum
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange Zest of 1 lemon or orange
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 40g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and citrus zest. Heat over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. 4.
   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and stir in the rum and vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or zest.
7. 7.
   Divide the custard into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
8. 8.
   Before serving, sprinkle each dish with a pinch of ground cinnamon.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rum — Choose a good quality rum with a smooth flavor to enhance the taste of the custard.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a silky smooth texture, make sure to strain the custard before chilling.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum with rum extract or additional vanilla extract.
• Serve Natilla al Ron chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for an added aromatic touch.
• Experiment with different citrus zests, such as lime or grapefruit, to add a unique twist to the custard.

Serving advice

Serve Natilla al Ron in elegant individual dessert dishes or small glass cups. Garnish each serving with a dusting of ground cinnamon for a visually appealing presentation.

Presentation advice

For an extra touch of elegance, you can decorate each serving with a small dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated chocolate. Serve with a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for a charming finishing touch.