Tradition
Crème brûlée embodies the essence of French cuisine, exuding a sense of luxury at just the mention of its name. Beyond being a delicious treat, it reflects the traditional dining culture and etiquette of France. Through crème brûlée, the French cherish the importance of dessert time after a meal, fostering connections with friends and family. The harmony of smooth cream and caramelized sugar feels like a work of art crafted with time and care.
History
The origins of crème brûlée trace back to 17th-century France. It first appeared in literature in 1691 in François Massialot's cookbook. His recipe was almost identical to what we know today, and it spread throughout Europe, inspiring various adaptations. Still, the unique taste and tradition that began in France continue to be beloved by many.
Preparation Method
The traditional preparation of crème brûlée is akin to a ritual. The base consists of fresh cream, vanilla bean, sugar, and egg yolks, slowly cooked in a water bath to achieve a smooth texture. The key is to evenly sprinkle sugar over the finished cream and caramelize it with a torch to create a crisp sugar layer. This process requires meticulous attention and skilled hands.
Food Story and Eating Method
Crème brûlée is ideal as a post-meal dessert, especially when paired with coffee or strong black tea to accentuate its flavors. In winter, enjoying crème brûlée by a warm fireplace offers a comforting warmth that melts your heart. The exhilarating sound of breaking the sugar crust marks the beginning of a delightful journey of taste, making it an exceptional experience.
Taste
The taste of crème brûlée holds a unique charm that is incomparable to any other dessert. The crunchiness of the thin sugar crust, when broken, and the rich creaminess beneath it envelop your palate in bliss. The subtle vanilla aroma and sweet flavors combine to create memorable moments.
Restaurant Recommendations
1. Le Petit Crème
Location: Gangnam, Seoul
Features: Offers authentic French-style crème brûlée with smooth cream and a crispy sugar crust.
2. The Sweet Recipe
Location: Haeundae, Busan
Features: Offers various flavors of crème brûlée, with seasonal limited editions being especially popular.
Online Purchase Recommendations
1. Premium Crème Brûlée Set
Brand: Dessert House
Purchase on Naver Shopping
Features: A kit that allows you to easily enjoy crème brûlée at home, made with premium ingredients.
2. Vanilla Crème Brûlée Mix
Brand: Sweet Home
Purchase on Naver Shopping
Features: A crème brûlée mix rich in vanilla aroma, known for its convenient preparation method.