I need help with the perfect flan! I've gotten addicted to the flan from a local taqueria (ANY flan has always been my favorite dessert, but this flan puts all others to shame and has almost ruined me for other flans; I can't even make due with Cozy Shack flan anymore), but my flan bill is getting a bit outrageous (and they don't always have it!), so I'd like to try my hand at it. I found another local place that makes something similar, but they made all the mistakes with it that I'm afraid of making myself. Tagueria #1 seems to cook theirs in a large glass baking dish that allows for uniform cooking while Taqueria #2 makes it in ramekins. I can tell from the taste and the sauce that they're going for the same thing, but #2's was just so eggy/bubbly and not firm and creamy at all.

I've tried googling for recipes on all my favorite sites and a just not finding much. I see a bunch of fancy flans, but I just want a basic Mexican flan with a light caramel sauce. I've never done a water bath, but understand the concept and I make delicious cheesecakes without one all the time (I'd rather not use a water bath, but will if it's the only way to et the results I'm hoping for).

Thoughts? Recipes Tips? Free flan for the flanless?

I've been handwashing my KitchenAid bowl/paddle. I was complaining about this to friends and they said they always just threw theirs in the dishwasher. I'm tempted to try, but I thought I read never to do so. Please tell me I can.

I have this one: http://www.samsclub.com/sams/kitchenaid-professional-hd-stand-mixer/prod500276.ip?refcd=GL05251200010021&pid=_CSE_Google_PLA_Housewares&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=127677S

ETA: Well, the bowl worked fine but the attachments did, indeed, discolor -- and there was a weird reaction with them such that now a grimy dark substance rubs off the surface. I think I'll need to replace them :( I tried!