Crème caramel

This popular dessert consists of a custard base and a soft caramel topping. The origins of crème caramel are unclear and disputed – the French, the English, and the Spanish all claim to be the original inventors of the dish. Although the name is French, some say that the French adopted it from English custard. When the Arabs brought sugar cane to Europe, Spanish cooks also discovered how to make a delicate and sweet custard, a historical exchange resulting in the creation of the famous crema Catalana. However, the French version is made only with whole milk or cream. Crème caramel is a star attraction in most European restaurants, as it is easy to prepare and can be made a day before serving.