LACINATO KALE AND LEEK FLAN

Lacinato Kale and Leek Flan image

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

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2 large leeks (white parts only), chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 lb cavolo nero or other kale, stems and center ribs discarded and leaves coarsely chopped
1 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup water
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 oz coarsely grated Pecorino Romano (1/2 cup)
1 large whole egg
2 large egg yolks
Special Equipment
8 (3- to 4-oz) ramekins (1/3 to 1/2 cup)

Steps:

Wash leeks in a bowl of cold water, then lift out and drain well. Cook leeks in butter and oil in a 5- to 6-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in kale and cook, covered, until slightly wilted, about 2 minutes. Add broth and water and simmer, uncovered, until kale is tender, about 8 minutes.
Purée kale mixture in 2 batches in a blender until very smooth (use caution when blending hot liquids). Pour through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on and discarding solids.
Preheat oven to 325°F.
Bring cream and cheese just to a boil, then remove from heat. Steep, covered, 10 minutes.
Whisk together whole egg, yolks, and kale purée in a bowl. Pour cream mixture through fine-mesh sieve into kale mixture and whisk to combine. Divide among buttered ramekins and bake, uncovered, in a water bath until set, 30 to 35 minutes (centers will still be slightly wobbly).
Transfer ramekins with tongs to a rack and cool 5 minutes. If desired, invert custards onto plates by first running a thin sharp knife around edge of each ramekin.