Steamed Berry Pudding Recipe

Steamed berry pudding is a classic dessert dating back to the early generations. It is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of berries or cherries with a light and fluffy cake-like texture. This pudding was popularized during a time when steaming was a common cooking method, as it allowed for dishes to be cooked evenly and retained their moisture.

Fun fact: Steamed puddings became popular in England during the 16th and 17th centuries. Prior to the invention of ovens, steaming was the primary method of cooking desserts. Steamed pudding was considered a comforting and hearty dish that could be enjoyed all year round.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for this delicious steamed berry pudding:

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of butter (or other shortening)
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of berries or pitted cherries (rolled in flour)
- Hard sauce (for serving)

Instructions:
1. Start by greasing a melon mold or any similar heatproof dish that fits into your steamer.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done by hand or using an electric mixer.

3. Add the egg yolk to the butter-sugar mixture and continue to mix until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Alternating with the milk, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to ensure proper mixing.

6. Gently fold in the berries or pitted cherries that have been rolled in flour. This will prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the pudding.

7. Pour the batter into the greased melon mold, filling it about two-thirds full. Smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Cover the melon mold tightly with a piece of greased parchment paper or aluminum foil, making sure to create a seal around the edges.

9. Fill a large pot with water and place a steamer or rack inside. Make sure the water level comes up to about halfway up the sides of the mold.

10. Place the covered melon mold onto the steamer or rack, ensuring that it is secure and won't tip over during the cooking process.

11. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

12. Reduce the heat to low and let the pudding steam for approximately 2 hours. Check the water level periodically and add more boiling water if necessary to maintain the desired level.

13. After 2 hours, carefully remove the melon mold from the pot using oven mitts or tongs. Remove the parchment paper or foil, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape.

14. Allow the steamed berry pudding to cool for a few minutes before gently inverting it onto a serving plate.

15. Serve the steamed berry pudding warm, accompanied by a rich and silky hard sauce. This sauce can be made by creaming together butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of your favorite spirit such as brandy or rum. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and flavorings to suit your taste.

Enjoy this delectable steamed berry pudding with its moist and tender texture and bursts of fruit flavors. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion and is especially comforting on colder days.

Similar dessert dishes that can be enjoyed include traditional steamed puddings such as sticky toffee pudding, Christmas pudding, and even savory steamed puddings like steak and kidney pudding. These steamed treats have long been favorites in various cuisines and continue to be enjoyed to this day. Experiment with different flavors, fruits, and sauces to create your own unique steamed pudding recipes. Happy cooking and bon appétit!