Salado cheese and onion flan: step by step for a perfect recipe

The most innovative aspect of this savory flan recipe is the fact that it combines two ingredients with flavors you've probably already incorporated into other, more classic recipes, but now in a different and unexpected way. This recipe is so different and special that you're sure to want to try it.

What is Salty Flan, the surprising alternative

Savory flan is a variation on the classic sweet flan , but instead of ingredients like caramel and sugar, it uses savory ingredients like cheese, onion, and spices . This version is perfect as a starter or main course and can be an excellent choice for those looking for something different and sophisticated.

The origin of the Salted Flan recipes

Although it may surprise you, savory flan isn't exactly new. This flavor combination has its roots in old European traditions , especially in countries like Spain and France , where savory flans and puddings have been part of the cuisine for centuries.

These types of recipes used to be prepared as starters for special occasions , and were made exclusively with local ingredients. Today, the creativity of people around the world has led to the creation of countless variations of savory flan wherever you are.

Key ingredients for a perfect Savory Flan

To make a perfect savory flan , it's essential to have high-quality ingredients. But in general, this recipe doesn't require many ingredients or complex techniques.

• The ingredients needed to make a savory flan are usually: eggs, cream, and cheese are the basic components that give it its texture and characteristic flavor.

Caramelized onion , on the other hand, is an almost fundamental part and a seal of finish for this savory recipe, because it adds an acidic touch, but with natural sweetness and complexity .

8 Tips for Making Homemade Savory Flan

• Use fresh ingredients : The freshness of the eggs and the cream are a fundamental part of the final texture of the flan.
• Control the oven temperature : The oven must be at a constant, low temperature to prevent the flan from cracking.
• Caramelize onions properly : Proper caramelization takes time and patience. If you've never done this before, here's a very easy step-by-step explanation of how to caramelize onions .
• Use individual molds : If possible, don't make a large flan, but divide the mixture into smaller molds for individual presentation. This will also facilitate even cooking.
• Don't overbeat : Overbeating the eggs will cause the mixture to incorporate more air than necessary, which will give the flan a foamy texture. What we're looking for is a smooth, creamy flan.
• Use ingredients in the correct order : Following the order of the ingredients ensures better integration of flavors.
• Let it cool before unmolding : Prevent the flan from breaking.
• Experiment with spices : Add herbs or spices for a personal touch.

Popular Variations of Salty Flan

Some popular variations of savory flan found online include spinach and ricotta flan ham and cheese flan zucchini flan . Each version offers a unique combination of flavors, proving that this is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to different palates and occasions.

Tips for Caramelizing Onions 

The key to making perfect caramelized onions is patience. Cook the onions over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This process can take 20 to 30 minutes.

Here are some additional tips:

• Use a wide pan : This is necessary so that the onions cook evenly.
• Don't rush the process : Cooking over high heat can burn the onions. Be patient and keep the heat low.
• Add a pinch of salt : Salt helps draw moisture out of the onions, which can speed up the caramelization process and enhance the flavor.
• Use oil or butter : This will prevent the onions from sticking to the pan.
• Stir occasionally : Stir the onions frequently to ensure they cook evenly and don't burn.
• Keep an eye on the cooking time : Depending on the amount of onion and the type of pan, the cooking time may vary. Ideally, you should look at the color and texture to determine when they're ready.

Note: Adding a small amount of sugar can help speed up the process, but it's not essential. In the end, the onion should be golden and tender, with a deep, sweet flavor.

Presentation and Decoration of the Salty Flan

The presentation of savory flan can elevate the experience even further. If you're feeling creative, a great idea is to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives , and serve it on a bed of green leaves for a fresh touch.

A few drops of extra virgin olive oil or a splash of balsamic vinegar can also add an extra dimension to the dish.

Common mistakes when making savory flan and how to avoid them

One of the most common mistakes when preparing homemade savory flan oven temperature . If the heat is too high, it will result in a cracked or overcooked flan.

• The ideal oven temperature for cooking savory flan is 150 degrees Celsius (300 degrees Fahrenheit) . It's crucial to maintain this constant, low temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent the flan from hardening or cracking.

Pro Tip: Using a double boiler during cooking will help maintain a stable temperature and distribute the heat evenly, avoiding ruining the flan's texture. It's also important not to open the oven door during cooking, as this can change the internal temperature and negatively affect the final result.

The video of this savory flan recipe step by step .

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Savory Flan Recipe

Yields: 1-2 individual servings
Preparation time: approx. 45 minutes.

Ingredients

• 90 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 25 ml cooking cream
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 2 eggs
• Salt, pepper, nutmeg
• 1 onion
• 1 tsp sugar
• Olive oil
• Butter

Step by step recipe for savory flan

1. Beat the two eggs in a large bowl. Grate the cheese and add it to the beaten eggs. Mix well.
2. Dissolve the cornstarch in the cold water. Then, heat this mixture in a saucepan over medium heat and add the cream. Stir until it begins to boil gently.
3. Once it boils, remove from heat and add this to the egg and cheese mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into individual ovenproof molds. Bake in a bain-marie in a preheated oven at 150°C for approximately 40 minutes, or until the flans are firm.
5. Caramelize the onion : Thinly slice the onions. Place them in a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Add a little oil and reduce the heat to low, cooking until the onions are completely caramelized.
6. Let the flans cool slightly before removing from the mold. Serve warm with caramelized onions on top.

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