| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 6g | 3g | 48g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 35g | 4g | 8g | 0.04g |
You might think it’s odd but, when I first encountered the Black Sapote and Vanilla Bean Custard, my palate instantly took me back to the bustling streets of my home city, New York. The alluring complexity of this recipe mirrors the intricate diversity of NYC’s culinary tapestry. This aromatic dessert, best appreciated by sophisticates, combines the bold, exotic flavors of the Black Sapote fruit with the rich, timeless appeal of vanilla bean, much like the city, contrasting the new and exciting with the comforting and familiar.
The Art of Savoring Custard
My love for theater has always influenced my sophistication. The patient, deliberate process of making custard mirrors the intricate set pieces I encounter on stage – every detail, no matter how small, contributes to the overall masterpiece. Crafting this Black Sapote and Vanilla Bean Custard embodies that complexity, creating a symphony of flavors that captures the palate and leaves it yearning for more.
Healthier Indulgence
But there’s more to this custard than delighting your taste buds. The main ingredient, Black Sapote, is a fruit lauded for its rich vitamin A content as well as its generous amounts of calcium—introducing an exotic, healthy twist [source] to the creamy indulgence of custard. Paired with the protein from egg yolks and calcium from the milk, you’ve got a sweet treat in a healthier package!
Although this recipe stands out on its own, it has flavors that evoke the elegance of a rum baba, delicateness of Fruit Bavarois, or the smoothness of Crème Brûlée. Each element contributing something unique yet harmonious, like the diverse casts of characters I’ve played throughout my acting career. And just like a great performance, this dessert leaves a lasting impression long after the final bite.
If you’re feeling decadent, the addition of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream will embellish this already luscious dessert, making it even more of a show-stopper. Much like the city I love, this Black Sapote and Vanilla Bean Custard can cater to a wide array of tastes. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or a visitor, this recipe tempts you to explore and enjoy the diverse culinary scene.
What You’ll Need
- 4 ripe Black Sapote fruits
- 4 cups of milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 plump vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
- 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- Fresh berries for garnish (optional)
- Whipped cream for serving (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by slicing the black sapote fruits in half. Scoop out the flesh of the fruit and place it in a blender or food processor. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and set aside for later.
Step Two
Grab a medium saucepan and pour in your milk. Add the granulated sugar, split vanilla bean, salt, and the seeds scraped from the vanilla bean. Warm this mixture over medium heat until it starts to steam.
Step Three
In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until the mixture becomes smooth. Gradually whisk in about a cup of your hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. Make sure to keep whisking until well incorporated. Then pour this mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
Step Four
Cook the custard over medium heat, whisking constantly until it starts to thick and bubbles start to surface. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking and stirring for a couple more minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the black sapote puree until well incorporated.
Step Five
Transfer the custard into a clean bowl and remove the vanilla bean. Make sure to cover the custard with a piece of plastic wrap (having it touch the surface of the custard directly) to prevent forming a skin. Chill the custard for at least two hours in the refrigerator.
Step Six
When you are ready to serve, give the custard a good stir to loosen it. Spoon into individual serving dishes, top with freshly whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries if you like.
Step Seven
Enjoy your homemade Black Sapote and Vanilla Bean Custard, a unique and delightful dessert!
