Oh, you are in for a delightful treat with Far Breton! This custard-like flan is a traditional dish from Brittany, France, and one of my absolute favorites. I remember the first time I tasted it during a family trip to the picturesque coast of Brittany. The salty sea breeze mixed with the sweet aroma of freshly baked Far Breton wafting from a charming little café caught my attention. I couldn’t resist trying a piece, and I was hooked instantly! The slightly chewy prunes paired with the creamy texture of the flan is truly a match made in dessert heaven.
What I love the most about Far Breton is its simplicity. It’s essentially a flan made with just a few staple ingredients, yet it’s so comforting and, dare I say, sophisticated! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home, it’s a dish that always impresses, even though it’s super easy to make. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a bit of Brittany into our kitchens!
What’s in Far Breton?
Milk: The base of the flan, creamy and smooth, I prefer using whole milk for that rich, indulgent texture it brings to the dish.
Eggs: You can’t have a custard without eggs! Fresh eggs are essential for binding everything together and giving the flan its signature silky texture.
Sugar: Just enough to sweeten things up! I usually go for granulated sugar, but you could also use brown sugar for added depth of flavor.
Flour: This gives the flan its structure, balancing the liquid from the milk and eggs. A good all-purpose flour will do just fine.
Prunes: The star of the show! Sweet, juicy prunes add a wonderful flavor and chewy texture. I always opt for pitted prunes to save time and trouble.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flan. Trust me, this little touch makes a big difference!
Is Far Breton Good for You?
Ah, the burning question! While Far Breton is undeniably a treat, it does have some redeeming qualities.
Milk: It’s a source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones. So, that’s one little health win!
Eggs: Packed with protein and nutrients, eggs are the perfect building blocks for a healthy diet. They’re especially high in vitamins like B12 and D.
Prunes: Not just delicious, prunes are known for their digestive health benefits. They’re high in fiber and can even help keep you regular—your gut will thank you!
However, it’s worth noting that this flan is on the sweeter side, so moderation is key. Enjoy it as a delightful dessert, but maybe save it for special occasions or a little indulgence here and there.
Ingredients
– 4 cups whole milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups pitted prunes
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe serves about 8 people, perfect for family gatherings or a delightful dessert night!
How to Make Far Breton?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven nice and cozy while we whip up this flan!
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly frothy. It’s surprisingly satisfying!
3. Slowly add in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. I love the aroma at this stage—it’s like a warm hug!
4. Gradually sift in the flour, stirring gently to avoid lumps. A whisk is great for this job.
5. Fold in the pitted prunes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, or you can use individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the flan is set in the center and lightly golden on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist—trust me, you may just want to sneak a little taste!
8. Let it cool for a bit before serving. It’s perfect warm or chilled!
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Far Breton!
– For a touch of elegance, serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar on top and a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce for an extra special treat.
– Pair it with a fruity compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in textures.
– You could even switch up the prunes for other dried fruits like apricots or cherries for a fun twist!
I really hope you give this Far Breton recipe a try. It’s been a favorite in my family for years, and I’m certain you’ll enjoy it just as much as I do! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out; I’d love to hear about your own experiences with this classic French flan. Happy baking!