Are you a lover of all things Spanish cuisine and an adventure seeker when it comes to trying out new recipes? Well, my friend, you’re in for a delightful surprise! Today, we’re going to explore the delicious and indulgent world of Leche Frita, a popular dessert that hails from Spain.
It’s basically a smooth and creamy custard, then fried to perfection. And the best part? You can enjoy it with a sweet drizzle of sugar or a sprinkle of fragrant cinnamon. The result is a crispy, golden shell that encases a soft and luscious filling that is simply irresistible.
While Leche Frita may seem like a complex dessert that is reserved only for skilled chefs or patisseries, the truth is that it is surprisingly easy to make at home.
All you need are a few simple ingredients and a dash of patience to treat yourself to the delicious flavors of this Spanish delicacy right from the comfort of your own kitchen. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!
What is Leche Frita?
Leche Frita, which translates to “fried milk,” is a heavenly dessert made by adding flour or cornstarch to milk, shaping it into small rectangles or fun shapes, and frying it until it’s crispy and golden on the outside. It’s a real treat that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
The fried milk squares are then dusted with cinnamon powder sugar and served warm. This treat, also known as Spanish fried milk, is traditionally served during Easter.
And speaking of Easter, you simply must have a look at these 25 Traditional Spanish Semana Santa Food Recipes; it’s got everything from delicious seafood dishes to mouth-watering desserts, including the irresistible Leche Frita recipe. It’s the perfect addition to your Easter celebrations!
Why is Leche Frita popular?
This exquisite dessert is well-known throughout Spain and is frequently enjoyed on the most joyous of occasions, from enchanting weddings to holy celebrations.
This recipe is also popular because of its simplicity, requiring only a handful of ingredients, making it a beloved classic. Furthermore, these treats are so typical that you might just find them nestled in your very own pantry.
Ingredients
½ cup Sugar
70 gr. Cornstarch
600 ml. Milk, divided
1 Lemon, peeled
1 Orange, peeled
½ cup Cornstarch
1 Egg, beaten
1 Cinnamon Stick
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
2 tbsp. sugar-cinnamon mixture
Mint Leaves
How to Make Leche Frita
1. Mix sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Add half of the milk.
2. Add the rest of the milk to a pot and add the lemon peel, orange peel, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, and turn off the heat. Let it rest for a couple of minutes.
3. Add the cornstarch mixture to the pot, heat to medium, and constantly stir until the mixture is creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small/medium greased baking tray, let it cool for a couple of minutes, and cover it with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours. Once that time passes, transfer the mixture to a cutting board and cut it into 1-inch x 1-inch cubes.
6. Transfer each cube to the cornstarch and then to the egg.
7. Heat the oil to 180º and fry the cubes until golden brown on every side.
8. Remove excess grease with a kitchen towel.
9. Top with the sugar-cinnamon mixture or with the confectioner’s sugar. Garnish with mint leaves.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- When you transfer the cornstarch mixture to the pot, make sure to stir without stopping since this is what will allow you to eliminate any bumps that may form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you serve leche frita?
Leche frita is a sweet treat served after a meal or as a snack. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how many delicious toppings go perfectly with this dish! Try drizzling some honey or adding a dollop of whipped cream for an extra sweet treat. And don’t wait too long to dig in – it’s best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
One delightful way to enjoy this treat is to serve it akin to other crispy confections, accompanied by creamy, cool ice cream.
Don’t forget to garnish your dish with some fresh fruit too! Apples, pears, berries…the possibilities are endless. Adding a touch of sweetness and tang is the perfect way to balance out that delicious fried flavor.
This delicacy simply had to make it onto our list of 40 Traditional Spanish Dessert Recipes. It’s simply too irresistible to leave out!
How to Store Leche Frita
Storing leche frita, a traditional Spanish dessert made of fried milk, requires proper care to maintain its texture and flavor. It should ideally be stored in an airtight container to avoid drying out or absorbing moisture. Before storing, allow the dessert to cool down to room temperature.
It is best to store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can freeze it for up to three months if you want to keep it longer.
Avoid reheating it in the microwave, as it might turn out a bit soggy. Instead, bake it for five minutes at 180°C in a preheated oven. This will help retain its crispy texture and deliciously creamy flavor.
How Do you Fry Leche Frita
Make sure to use a high-quality oil like vegetable or canola and heat it up to the right temperature. It’s super important to keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning and make sure your leche frita is cooked evenly. You can either deep fry it or use a non-stick pan for a more shallow fry. Trust me, with these tips; you’ll have some mouth-watering leche frita in no time!
Indulging in a scrumptious dessert that’s been passed down from generation to generation is truly a delightful experience. And leche frita is no exception! This delectable dessert boasts a texture and flavor that simply cannot be replicated, and its versatility in terms of serving options only adds to its charm.
Whether you enjoy it piping hot, cool as a cucumber, or with a drizzle of honey, leche frita recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds in the most delightful way possible.
Why not try your hand at whipping up this Spanish classic in the comfort of your own home? With a recipe that’s easy to follow and simple ingredients, making leche frita is a breeze. And the best part? It’s the perfect treat for any occasion! So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of this heavenly dessert, and let the good times roll!
Leche Frita Recipe
Equipment
- Pots
- Bowls
- Small baking tray (around 8 x 6 inches)
- Plastic Wrap
- Spoons and knives
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 70 g Cornstarch
- 600 ml Milk divided
- 1 Lemon peeled
- 1 Orange peeled
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- 1 Egg beaten
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- Mint Leaves
Nutrition
Notes
- When you transfer the cornstarch mixture to the pot, make sure to stir without stopping since this is what will allow you to eliminate any bumps that may form.
Instructions
- Mix sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Add half of the milk.
- Add the rest of the milk to a pot and add the lemon peel, orange peel, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, and turn off the heat. Let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the pot, heat to medium, and constantly stir until the mixture is creamy.
- Transfer the mixture to a small/medium greased baking tray, let it cool for a couple of minutes, and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours. Once that time passes, transfer the mixture to a cutting board and cut it into 1-inch x 1-inch cubes.
- Transfer each cube to the cornstarch and then to the egg.
- Heat the oil to 180º and fry the cubes until golden brown on every side.
- Remove excess grease with a kitchen towel.
- Top with the sugar-cinnamon mixture or with the confectioner’s sugar. Garnish with mint leaves.
