How to Make Mexican Leche Frita for a Crispy Delight
Leche Frita, or Fried Milk, is a beloved dessert in Mexican cuisine known for its creamy texture and crispy exterior. This delightful treat is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth looking for a unique dish to impress friends and family. Follow this guide on how to make Mexican Leche Frita for a crispy delight that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients for Leche Frita
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Cinnamon and powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Milk Mixture
Begin by placing the whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium saucepan. Whisk the mixture over medium heat until it begins to thicken, about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Once thickened to a custard-like consistency, remove the saucepan from heat.
2. Set the Mixture and Chill
Pour the thickened milk mixture into a square or rectangular dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool for a few minutes at room temperature before covering and refrigerating for at least 3 hours or until fully set. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
3. Prepare for Frying
Once the leche is set, cut it into squares or rectangles. In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs. This ensures that the leche frita will have that crispy coating.
4. Bread the Leche Frita
Dredge each piece of chilled leche in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it is well-coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat this process for each piece, ensuring they’re well-breaded.
5. Fry the Breaded Pieces
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded leche frita pieces into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil, and place on a plate lined with paper towels to catch any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Leche Frita can be served warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.
Enjoy Your Crispy Delight!
This deliciously crispy treat is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a weekday dessert, Mexican Leche Frita is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy!