Rhubarb Ginger Crème Brûlée: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dessert
Crème brûlée, a classic French dessert known for its creamy custard base and caramelized sugar topping, gains an exciting twist with the addition of rhubarb and ginger. This combination brings a vibrant pink color, tart-sweet flavor, and a hint of spice to the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Custard:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped rhubarb
- 1/4 cup chopped ginger
For the Brûlée Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Custard:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture. Stir in the rhubarb and ginger.
2. Bake the Custards:
- Divide the custard mixture evenly among six 4-ounce ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in a baking dish and pour hot water into the dish to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly wobbly.
3. Chill the Custards:
- Remove the custards from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Create the Brûlée Topping:
- Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the chilled custards.
5. Caramelize the Sugar:
- Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the rhubarb ginger crème brûlée with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Pair with a glass of sweet wine or a cup of tea for a perfect dessert experience.
Health Benefits of Rhubarb and Ginger:
- Rhubarb is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage.
- Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.
Conclusion:
Rhubarb ginger crème brûlée is a delicious and visually stunning dessert that combines the classic flavors of crème brûlée with the vibrant tartness of rhubarb and the aromatic warmth of ginger. It's a perfect treat for any occasion and will impress your guests with its unique flavor profile.