Let it Ride!

The gallery closed for an unprecedented two days this past weekend for a retreat to a far off land - The Indian Reservation Casino of Connecticut, Mohegan Sun – Nothing but class, I tell you! The idea was to relax in a spa environment and later after indulging on a satisfying meal; we would pay our restitutions to the Native Americans through the playing of roulette and slots.

After finding the inner chain smoking, blue haired granny in me at the $1 slots, I had a brilliant idea - Finally, the answer to what to do with the yolks left over from the making my mad macaroons – Crème Brulee! Something as delish and (nearly) easy as the macaroons. When I got home - I scoured my recipe for the perfect concoction to share and found this Cardamom infused inspiration. The ice-cold custard with the crackling sugar top is sure to please the time and taste conscientious. Enjoy!

Let it ride on 3! Cardamom Crème Brulee

6 large egg yolks, beaten
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon freshly ground cardamom
1/2 cup light brown sugar

1. Preheat oven to 325°.
2. In a large heat-proof mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar.
3. Place the cream in a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Warm just until little bubbles form around the edge. Remove from the heat and, whisking constantly, pour into the egg and sugar mixture. Add the cardamom and continue whisking until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
4. Pour the mixture through a very fine sieve into 4 crème brûlée dishes, filling them only half full. Place the dishes into a shallow baking dish large enough to hold them without crowding. Place the dish on the middle rack of oven. Working quickly to preserve the heat, finish filling the dishes with the custard mixture, making sure that it comes right to the top of each dish. Then carefully fill the baking dish with very hot tap water so it comes halfway up the sides of the filled dishes. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the custard is set in the center.
5. Remove the custards to a wire rack to cool. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until ready to use.
6. When ready to serve, preheat the broiler.
7. Pass the brown sugar through a fine sieve to eliminate all lumps. Generously sprinkle the top of each chilled custard with an equal portion of the brown sugar, taking care to cover all of the custard, so that it gives an even finish. Place the chilled crème brûlée dishes under the preheated broiler and broil for about 2 minutes, or until the tops are crackling brown. Remove from the broiler and serve immediately.