Coconut Flan

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2: In a large bowl place egg yolks and mix in 3 tablespoons of the sugar and a pinch of salt; stir until mixed (a few minutes).

Step 3: In a saucepan over low heat heat the half-and-half, vanilla (if using the extract), the remaining sugar and coconut. Bring mixture to a scald (DO NOT BOIL). If using the vanilla bean, scrape the inside of the bean into the mixture. When the half-and-half mixture reaches scald (190-200 degrees) remove from heat. Stir in the half-and-half mixture to the egg mixture.

Step 4: Place 8 (6 ounce) ramekins into a baking pan and then pour the mixture into the ramkins. add water until the level reaches 2/3 the way up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 50-60 minutes.

Step 5: When done, remove the ramekins from the pan and place on a counter top until cool and then refrigerate. Serve chilled.