Batter Pudding. Recipe

Batter pudding is a classic British dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its humble origins can be traced back to the 16th century when it was known as "poor man's pudding" due to its simple and inexpensive ingredients. Today, it is still a popular dish served in households across the United Kingdom and has even gained international recognition for its deliciousness and versatility.

This delightful pudding is made by combining flour, eggs, and milk to create a smooth batter, which is then sweetened to taste and boiled in a buttered basin. The result is a light, fluffy, and comforting dessert that can be served on its own or with a variety of accompaniments such as fresh fruit, custard, or a drizzle of honey.

To make a delicious batter pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

- 3 ounces of flour
- 4 beaten eggs
- 1 pint of milk
- Sugar or sweetener of your choice (to taste)
- Butter, for greasing the basin

To begin, sift the flour into a mixing bowl to ensure it is free of any lumps. Next, add the beaten eggs and gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. This will help create a smooth batter without any clumps.

Once the batter is well combined, sweeten to taste with sugar or a sweetener of your choice. How much sugar you add will depend on your preference for sweetness. Keep in mind that the pudding will also acquire some sweetness from the milk, so start with a small amount of sugar and adjust to your liking.

Continue whisking the batter until it reaches the consistency of good cream. This means that it should be smooth and pourable, but not too thin. The thickness of the batter is essential for achieving the perfect texture in the final pudding.

Now it's time to prepare the basin. Grease it generously with butter to prevent the pudding from sticking during cooking. This will also give the pudding a delicious buttery flavor.

Pour the batter into the buttered basin, ensuring it is filled to about three-fourths capacity. This allows room for the pudding to rise while cooking without overflowing.

To cook the batter pudding, there are a few options. The traditional method involves steaming the pudding in a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to reach about halfway up the sides of the basin. Cover the pot with a lid and gently simmer for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pudding is set and springy to the touch.

Alternatively, you can also cook the pudding in a preheated oven. Place the basin in a water bath and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Keep an eye on the pudding and check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center – it should come out clean when it is ready.

Once the batter pudding is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This will help the pudding set further and make it easier to portion.

When serving, simply turn the basin upside down onto a serving plate to release the pudding. It should come out easily, retaining its shape and delicate texture. Slice into generous portions and enjoy the lightness and simplicity of this classic dessert.

Fun fact: Batter pudding is often referred to as "spotted dick" when it is made with the addition of dried fruit such as raisins or currants. This variation adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture to an already tasty pudding.

Similar to batter pudding is the Yorkshire pudding, which is a savory version often served as a side dish with roast beef. Yorkshire pudding follows a similar batter recipe but is typically baked in a hot oven instead of being boiled. The result is a golden, crispy, and slightly fluffy treat that is the perfect accompaniment to a traditional Sunday roast.

Another delectable recipe you might enjoy is the clafoutis, a French dessert made with a slightly thicker batter poured over fresh fruit such as cherries or berries. The batter is baked until puffed up and golden, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet fruit and the soft, custard-like interior.

In conclusion, batter pudding is a timeless dessert that exemplifies the beauty of simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delightful and comforting treat that will surely please both young and old alike. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the art of whisking, and indulge in a taste of British culinary tradition.

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