Fan Of Custard? Explore Its History And Try The Recipe At Home
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Do you like to indulge in drool-worthy dishes like vanilla pudding, creme brulee, bread pudding, or simply a fruit custard? All these decadent desserts have one thing in common, and that is the richness of custard. The velvety and creamy texture of a bowl of custard can make anyone take an extra serving even after being full.

While you must know about custard-filled pies and doughnuts, you might not realise that your favourite custard has been on people’s plates since the 14th century. So, let’s have a look at where it comes from and the variations it has had over the years. By the end of the article, your taste buds will be craving custard, so enjoy an easy recipe that you can make at home.

The Origin Of Custard

The oldest records of custard were found to be in ancient Rome in the 14th century with a recipe called “Crustardes of flesh.” The name might sound a bit scary, but the recipe was almost similar to today’s custard that ancient elites used to enjoy. It was made from milk, eggs and honey, and was served as a luxurious dessert at royal events. 

As the Roman Empire started to expand across Europe and even further, the dessert made its way into people’s hearts irrespective of the geographical location. By the 15th century, it was rather popular in England and even Queen Elizabeth I had her own twist to relishing custard. Thereon, the dessert made its way into elaborate baked goods like custard pies and breads. 

The Modern Day Custard

Today, custard is widely appreciated as is, and the instant custard mixes are a testament to it, and also it has made its way up to several gourmet desserts as well. Chefs all around the globe experiment with the flavour, presentation, and infusion of custard with other desserts as well. Made with basic ingredients like milk and eggs, custard is now relished in forms like pies, tarts, breads, puddings, parfaits, trifles, and whatnot.

Varieties Of Custard

Baked Custards:

Creme Brule: It is one of the most loved forms of custard that has a caramelised sugar top and a vanilla base.

Custard Tart: They have a crunchy exterior filled with custard, whipped cream, and some fruits.

Bread Pudding: This is made by soaking bread in custard and baking it again to get a caramelised flavour.

Unbaked Custards:

Pastry Cream: It is thicker than usual custard, which is used for filling pastries, pies, and cream puffs.

Panna Cotta: It is a jiggly form of custard which does not require any eggs and is made with a touch of vanilla, coffee, or fruit.

Fruit Curds: They are made with fruit juices or pulp instead of milk, making a colourful and flavoured custard.

Make Custard At Home

Here’s a promising recipe fro a creamy custard for you to indulge in.

Ingredients:

  1. Milk - 2 cups
  2. Eggs - 4
  3. Heavy cream - 1/2 cup 
  4. Powdered sugar - 1/2 cup 
  5. Vanilla extract - 1 tsp

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together sugar and egg yolks in a mixing bowl.
  2. Add vanilla extract and mix again.
  3. Take a pan and warm up the milk mixed with the heavy cream until it's lukewarm.
  4. Pour the milk into the mixture you just prepared and mix vigorously.
  5. Heat the contents and continuously stir till the mixture is thickened.
  6. Let it cool down and set.
  7. Refrigerate it for about two hours and you can now have the spoonfuls of your favourite dessert.