Mediterranean Vanilla Custard with Raisins

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🍮 Mediterranean Vanilla Custard with Raisins

Ingredients

• 1 liter (4 cups) milk (full-fat for creaminess)

• 4 tablespoons cornstarch (or semolina for a traditional texture)

• ⅓ cup sugar (or honey for Mediterranean touch)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric or saffron (for natural yellow color – optional)

• ¼ cup raisins

• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon butter (extra silky texture)

• Ground cardamom or cinnamon (very Mediterranean)

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Instructions

1. Soak Raisins (Optional but Better)
   Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.

2. Mix Cornstarch
   In a bowl, whisk cornstarch with ½ cup cold milk until smooth (no lumps).

3. Heat Milk
   In a saucepan, heat remaining milk with sugar, salt, turmeric/saffron, and vanilla over medium heat.

4. Thicken Custard
   Slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly.
   Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring, until thick and creamy.

5. Add Raisins
   Stir in raisins and butter (if using). Remove from heat.

6. Set & Serve
   Pour into glasses or cups.
   Let cool slightly, then refrigerate 1–2 hours to fully set.

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🌿 Mediterranean Serving Ideas

• Garnish with pistachios or almonds

• Sprinkle cinnamon or cardamom on top

• Serve chilled or slightly warm

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🔄 Variations

• No sugar: Sweeten with blended dates

• Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk

• Protein boost: Stir in Greek yogurt after cooling

• Baked version: Bake in ramekins at 170°C (340°F) for 25 minutes