Ingredients:
For the milk custard:
- 2 cups (500 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (125 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (125 g) cornstarch
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) vanilla extract
For the coating:
- 1 cup (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (500 g) bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the syrup (optional):
- ½ cup (125 ml) water
- ½ cup (125 g) sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
Instructions:
Prepare the Milk Custard:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and sugar. Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar is dissolved and the milk is warm but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Add this to the warm milk mixture.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and becomes a custard-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the butter is fully incorporated.
- Pour the custard into a greased square or rectangular dish and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for a few hours or until it’s set and can be easily cut into rectangle shapes.
Coating and Frying:
- Once the milk custard is set, cut it into bite-sized rectangle shapes.
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dip each custard square into the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer of breadcrumbs sticks to each square.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
- Carefully drop the coated custard squares into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried milk squares and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.