5 Quick Recipes Using Evaporated Milk You'll Love

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate covered strawberries are a quick and luxurious treat that you can make even more decadent with evaporated milk. Here's how you can do it:

• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips - These melt nicely for a glossy finish.
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk - Enhances the creaminess of the chocolate.
• Fresh strawberries with stems - Ensure they are dry for better chocolate adherence.

Steps:

1. Melt the chocolate chips with the evaporated milk in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
2. Dip strawberries in the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place them on wax or parchment paper to cool.
3. If you wish, you can dip a second time for a thicker coat or drizzle with white chocolate for contrast.

⚡ Note: Be sure to cool your chocolate slightly before dipping to ensure the strawberries don't get too warm and start to release moisture.

Evaporated Milk Soup

Making a creamy soup with evaporated milk is incredibly simple and can be adjusted with whatever ingredients you have on hand:

• 1 can of evaporated milk - For a smooth texture.
• 1 cup of cooked vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn) - Adds nutrition and flavor.
• 2 cups of broth (chicken, vegetable or beef) - As the soup base.
• Seasonings - Salt, pepper, thyme, or whatever you prefer.

Instructions:

1. Heat the broth in a pot and bring to a simmer.
2. Add your vegetables to the pot.
3. Slowly pour in the evaporated milk while stirring to incorporate.
4. Season to taste and allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes.

🌟 Note: Evaporated milk can curdle in high heat, so add it after your soup base is already heated.

Mac and Cheese With Evaporated Milk

This stovetop mac and cheese recipe is quick, easy, and indulgent:

• 2 cups of uncooked macaroni - Choose your preferred shape.
• 1 can of evaporated milk - Creates a rich sauce.
• 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar - Or a mix of cheeses for more flavor.
• Spices - A dash of mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Directions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, mix evaporated milk, shredded cheese, and spices in a separate bowl.
3. Drain the pasta, return to the pot over low heat, and slowly add the milk-cheese mixture, stirring until the cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.

Evaporated Milk Ice Cream

Creating your own ice cream with evaporated milk can yield a rich, velvety texture. Here's a simple vanilla ice cream recipe:

• 1 can of evaporated milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream - For added richness.
• 3/4 cup of sugar - Granulated or superfine works best.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract - Or seeds from one vanilla bean.
• Pinch of salt - To enhance flavor.

How to Make:

1. Whisk together all ingredients until sugar dissolves.
2. Churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Freeze for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up if necessary.

Creamy Tres Leches Cake

Traditionally made with three types of milk, this cake gets its moisture and flavor from evaporated milk:

Steps for Preparation:

1. Bake the cake according to basic sponge cake recipe instructions.
2. Combine the three milks and vanilla extract.
3. Poke holes in the cake, pour the milk mixture over it, and let it soak for at least 30 minutes.
4. Whip heavy cream for frosting or topping and spread over the cake.

In these recipes, evaporated milk serves as an unexpected hero, providing a smooth and rich texture that standard milk simply can’t match. From transforming desserts to soups, and even making quick meals special, the versatility of this ingredient is impressive. Whether it’s for a simple weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, evaporated milk can elevate your dish to a new level of creaminess and indulgence.

Can you freeze dishes made with evaporated milk?

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Yes, dishes made with evaporated milk can be frozen, but the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Soups, casseroles, and sauces will generally thaw with minimal change in texture.

How long can evaporated milk last once opened?

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Opened evaporated milk should be refrigerated and can last up to 5 days. Always keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can evaporated milk be used as a substitute for heavy cream?

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Evaporated milk can substitute for heavy cream in many recipes, especially those requiring heat. For whipped cream, you’ll need to add stabilizers like gelatin.