
Adapted from Chef/Owner Ethan Stowell, Union Restaurant, Seattle, WA
(NC)—Soft vanilla flavour penetrates every inch of this rich, creamy dessert and takes on a unique twist with the addition of crunchy California walnuts a-top the caramelized sugar.
4 cups whipping cream 1 L
2 cups California walnuts, 500 mL
2 tbsp walnut oil 30 mL
12 egg yolks 12
1 cup granulated sugar 250 mL
1 vanilla bean, 1
Glazed Walnuts10 California walnut 10
1 tsp maple syrup 5 mL
Icing sugar,
for dusting
3/4 cup granulated sugar, 175 mL
for caramelizing
Combine cream, walnuts and walnut oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Heat to 200°F [93°C]. Remove from heat and let stand 20 minutes to allow infusion of walnut flavour. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and keep warm. Discard walnuts.
Beat egg yolks, sugar and vanilla bean in a mixing bowl until pale and thick. Strain through a fine mesh strainer. Gradually pour the cream into the egg mixture, whisking until combined.
Pour mixture into 10 6-oz [175 mL] ramekins. Place ramekins in a large baking pan; pour boiling water into the pan to halfway up sides. Bake at 300°F [150°C] about 50 to 60 minutes, or until custard is just set. Remove from oven and set ramekins on a rack to cool slightly. Transfer to refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
Glazed WalnutsMeanwhile place walnuts in small dry skillet over medium heat. Stir a few minutes until fragrant. Stir maple syrup into walnuts and cook 1 minute, or until well-coated and syrup is absorbed into walnuts. Transfer to parchment paper-lined tray to cool. Dust lightly with icing sugar.
Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tbsp [15 mL] sugar on each ramekin. Using a kitchen torch or oven broiler brown and caramelize sugar. Immediately top with a glazed walnut.
Makes 10 servings.
More recipes are available online at www.walnutinfo.com.
Credit: www.newscanada.com