Noun
/flan/
The word "flan" refers to a type of dessert that is typically creamy and has a caramel topping. It is a popular dish in many Spanish-speaking countries and is made from eggs, milk, and sugar, giving it a smooth texture and rich flavor.
In terms of language usage, "flan" is primarily used in oral contexts, as it is frequently mentioned in conversations related to food, recipes, and dining. However, it can also be encountered in written discourse, such as cookbooks and food blogs.
Me encanta comer flan después de la cena.
I love to eat flan after dinner.
El flan de coco que preparó mi abuela es el mejor.
The coconut flan that my grandmother made is the best.
En el restaurante, sirvieron un flan delicioso.
At the restaurant, they served a delicious flan.
Though "flan" is not commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, it is involved in some colloquial phrases that express enjoyment of food or the idea of something being sweet or pleasant. Here are a few examples:
Esa noticia me cayó como un flan.
That news hit me like flan.
(Meaning: It surprised me pleasantly.)
Aunque la vida es como un flan, siempre hay que disfrutarla.
Although life is like flan, we must always enjoy it.
(Meaning: Life may have its ups and downs, but it should be savored.)
Cuando veo a mis amigos, siento que el tiempo vuela, como si fuera un flan.
When I see my friends, I feel that time flies, as if it were flan.
(Meaning: Enjoyable moments pass quickly.)
The word "flan" comes from the Old French word "flan," which refers to a flat cake or tart. It has Latin roots from "fladinx," which means "cake." Over time, "flan" evolved in Spanish cuisine to specifically designate the smooth custard dessert that is well known today.
Natillas (custard)
Antonyms:
In summary, "flan" is a beloved dessert within Spanish-speaking cultures, known for its smooth texture and sweet flavor profile. Its role in culinary contexts highlights the enjoyment associated with both its taste and the experience of sharing it with loved ones.