Former Great British Bake Off star Benjamina Ebuehi has unveiled a recipe for a Mexican-style vanilla bean flan, aiming to present a classic, authentic version of the often-misunderstood dessert to a British audience. Ebuehi's latest culinary endeavour draws direct inspiration from her recent travels to Mexico City, a destination she frequently cites as one of her favourite places.
Ebuehi described her experience in Mexico as developing a new 'fixation' each time she visits, with her most recent trip leading to a significant consumption of flan. This personal culinary journey has now culminated in a detailed recipe designed to capture the essence of the Mexican dessert, which she describes as 'unadulterated, wobbly, joyous'.
The chef acknowledges that flan holds a somewhat 'retro' and potentially 'divisive' reputation within the United Kingdom's culinary landscape. Her recipe appears to be an attempt to elevate the dish beyond these perceptions, showcasing it in its traditional form as enjoyed in Mexico. The focus is on a true-to-form preparation, emphasising the dessert's characteristic texture and flavour profile.
For many in the UK, flan might evoke memories of simpler, often mass-produced versions. Ebuehi's approach, however, seeks to highlight the artisanal quality and rich heritage of the Mexican rendition, which typically features a smooth, creamy custard base topped with a delicate caramel sauce. Her recipe is anticipated to provide home bakers with the guidance to recreate this authentic experience.