5 Delicious Recipes Using Evaporated Milk

Discovering the world of cooking with evaporated milk can transform ordinary recipes into creamy, flavorful delights. Evaporated milk, a key ingredient often overlooked, can elevate your dishes from simple to sophisticated with its rich texture and sweet undertone. Whether you're looking to make a quick dessert or enrich your morning cup of coffee, evaporated milk is your secret weapon in the kitchen.

1. Tres Leches Cake

One of the most famous desserts using evaporated milk is the Tres Leches Cake, meaning ‘three milks’ in Spanish. Here’s how you can make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 4 eggs, separated
  • 1 cup sugar, divided
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Milk Mixture:
  • 1 can (14oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Mix the flour and baking powder, set aside. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until fluffy, then add milk and vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whip egg whites with 1/4 cup sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold into the egg yolk mixture. Stir in the flour mixture gently.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool.
5. Whisk together the milk mixture and pour over the cake. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

📝 Note: For an extra touch, top with whipped cream or fresh fruits!

2. Creamy Potato Gratin

If you’re craving a comforting side dish, this creamy potato gratin will not disappoint:

• Ingredients:
  • 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyere)
  • Butter for greasing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Layer potatoes and onions, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
3. Combine evaporated milk, cream, and garlic. Pour over the potatoes.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, remove foil, sprinkle cheese, and bake until golden (about 15-20 minutes).

📝 Note: Make sure to slice your potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

3. Evaporated Milk Coffee

Transform your regular coffee into something special with this easy recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup hot brewed coffee
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk
  • Sugar to taste
  • Cinnamon or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Steps:

1. Brew your coffee.
2. Pour the hot coffee into a mug. Add the evaporated milk.
3. Stir in sugar to taste. Sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa if desired.

4. Creamy Tomato Soup

Upgrade a traditional tomato soup by adding a luxurious touch of evaporated milk:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cans (14.5oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
2. Add diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Blend the soup until smooth, then return to the pot.
4. Stir in the evaporated milk, warm through, but do not boil.

5. Rich and Creamy Fudge

Lastly, for those with a sweet tooth, this fudge recipe will become a family favorite:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk
  • 1.5 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Steps:

1. Line an 8x8 inch pan with foil or parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, combine milk and sugar, bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. Add butter and chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and pour into the prepared pan. Chill until firm.

Integrating evaporated milk into your culinary repertoire can truly enhance the flavor profile and texture of many dishes. From decadent desserts to hearty sides, this pantry staple brings a creamy richness that’s hard to replicate. Remember, evaporated milk is not just for traditional recipes; its versatility allows for a fusion of flavors in both sweet and savory dishes, making it an essential ingredient for cooks looking to add depth and richness to their meals.

Can I substitute evaporated milk with regular milk?

+

Yes, you can substitute evaporated milk with regular milk by reducing it down to half its volume. However, the texture and flavor will be less rich, and some recipes might not turn out as intended.

How long does evaporated milk last?

+

Unopened cans of evaporated milk can last up to 2 years. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 5 days.

Is evaporated milk the same as condensed milk?

+

No, evaporated milk has about 60% of the water removed from it, whereas sweetened condensed milk also has sugar added to it, making it thicker and sweeter.

Can I freeze dishes made with evaporated milk?

+

Yes, many dishes can be frozen, but the texture might change slightly due to the separation of milk solids and liquids. Stir well after thawing for best results.

Where can I buy evaporated milk?

+

Evaporated milk is widely available in supermarkets and grocery stores, usually found in the baking or canned goods section.