Steamed Fruit Pudding Recipe

Steamed Fruit Pudding is a delightful and traditional dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This rich and flavorful pudding is made with a combination of sweet milk, suet, molasses, raisins, soda, and salt. The unique steaming method used to cook this pudding results in a moist and tender texture, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

The origins of Steamed Fruit Pudding trace back to the 17th century in England, where it was originally known as "plum pudding". The term "plum" was used to refer to any dried fruit, including raisins, which were a common ingredient in early versions of this pudding. Over time, the name "plum pudding" evolved into Steamed Fruit Pudding, reflecting the variations in fruit choices.

Fun fact: Despite the name, Steamed Fruit Pudding does not contain any plums. The term "plum" was used in the past to describe any type of dried fruit, and raisins were commonly referred to as plums. This kind of linguistic shift is often seen in culinary history.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Steamed Fruit Pudding:

Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweet milk
- 1 cup chopped suet
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoonful soda dissolved in a little water
- 1 teaspoonful salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Start by greasing a pudding mold or a heatproof bowl. This will prevent the pudding from sticking to the sides during the steaming process.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet milk, chopped suet, molasses, and raisins. Stir until well combined.

3. Add the dissolved soda and salt to the mixture, and mix well.

4. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture.

5. Pour the batter into the greased pudding mold or bowl, filling it about two-thirds full. Leave room for the pudding to expand as it steams.

6. Cover the pudding mold or bowl tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil or a lid if your mold has one. This will prevent any moisture from seeping into the pudding during steaming.

7. Place the pudding mold or bowl in a large pot with a steamer rack or a heatproof dish filled with water. The water level should reach about halfway up the sides of the mold.

8. Cover the pot and bring the water to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the pudding to steam for about 2 to 3 hours. Check the water level periodically and add more hot water if needed.

9. After the steaming time has elapsed, carefully remove the pudding from the pot and let it cool in the mold for a few minutes.

10. To serve the pudding, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The pudding should slide out easily if the mold was properly greased.

11. Steamed Fruit Pudding can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on your preference. You can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm custard sauce for added indulgence.

Similar recipes to Steamed Fruit Pudding include Sticky Toffee Pudding and Christmas Pudding. Sticky Toffee Pudding is a moist sponge cake made with dates and served with a toffee sauce. Christmas Pudding, also known as plum pudding, is a rich, dense pudding made with a combination of dried fruits, spices, suet, and breadcrumbs. Both of these variations are also traditionally steamed and enjoyed during the holiday season.

In conclusion, Steamed Fruit Pudding is a classic dessert that embodies the essence of comfort and tradition. This timeless treat is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and moist texture. Whether served warm or cold, Steamed Fruit Pudding is a delightful indulgence that will leave everyone craving for more.