Saffron Haupia Frita
Ilan: Finale, Part 1
Haupia is a dessert similar to a chilled custard or gelatin. In this recipe, it is chilled and then deep-fried to form a delicious crispy exterior.
Serves 12.
Ingredients:
4 cups unsweetened coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon saffron
1 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 egg yolks plus 2 eggs for egg wash
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 cup flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Confectioners sugar for sprinkling
Directions:
1. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, saffron, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside for 20 minutes for flavors to develop.
3. In a small bowl, combine egg yolks and cornstarch. Whisk mixture until smooth and thick. Add 1 cup of coconut milk mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Return remaining coconut milk mixture to stove and heat on high. While whisking, add egg yolk mixture in a slow stream. Continue to whisk until mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat.
5. Pour thickened mixture into prepared baking sheet. Spread into an even layer using a spatula. Transfer sheet pan to refrigerator and chill until firm and set.
6. Pour oil into a heavy bottomed pot to a depth of 2 inches. Place over medium high heat and heat to 350°F.
7. Remove baking sheet from refrigerator. Invert pan onto a clean cutting board. Remove parchment paper. Cut the firm pudding into desired shapes, using a cookie cutter if necessary.
8. Spread flour onto a shallow plate in an even layer. Beat the two eggs until smooth and transfer to a shallow plate. Spread breadcrumbs on a shallow plate in an even layer.
9. Coat each piece of chilled pudding completely in flour, transfer to egg mixture and coat completely. Transfer to breadcrumbs and coat completely. Repeat with remaining pieces.
10. Once each shape is completely coated in flour, egg wash and breadcrumbs, place in hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown. Remove using a slotted spoon to a paper-towel lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining shapes.
11. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar and serve immediately.
