cookbooks

English Plum Pudding. Mrs. W. C. Butcher. Recipe

History of English Plum Pudding:

English Plum Pudding, also known as Christmas Pudding, is a traditional dessert that has been enjoyed in England for centuries, particularly during the holiday season. The origins of this delicious treat can be traced back to the medieval period when it was initially called "plum porridge" or "plum pottage." Back then, "plum" referred to any type of dried fruit, such as raisins or currants, rather than the plums we know today.

Originally, Plum Pudding was made with meat and root vegetables, but over time, the recipe evolved to include more fruits, spices, and sweet ingredients. It became associated with Christmas due to its rich and indulgent nature, making it a perfect dish for festive celebrations.

Fun Facts about English Plum Pudding:

1. The tradition of stirring the pudding mixture dates back to medieval times when it was believed that making a wish while stirring would bring good luck.
2. Traditional English Plum Pudding is often prepared several weeks in advance to allow the flavors to mature and develop.
3. Some families include small objects such as coins, rings, or charms in the pudding, which are said to bring luck to the person who finds them.
4. Plum Pudding is traditionally served flambéed, with a sprig of holly on top, and accompanied by a rich brandy or rum sauce.

Mrs. W. C. Butcher's English Plum Pudding Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 4 cups of flour
- 4 cups of sweet milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of molasses
- 3/4 cup of chopped suet
- 1 cup of raisins
- 1/2 cup of currants
- 1 small teaspoonful of salt
- 1 heaping teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 heaping teaspoon of cloves
- 1/2 a nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon of soda

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

2. In a separate bowl, stir together the sweet milk and molasses until well combined. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously.

3. Add the chopped suet, raisins, and currants to the batter. Mix thoroughly to distribute the fruits evenly.

4. Dissolve the soda in a little water and add it to the batter, stirring well to incorporate.

5. Grease a pudding basin or a heatproof dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the pudding batter into the prepared dish, ensuring there is enough space for the pudding to expand while steaming.

6. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a pudding cloth, securing it with a string or a rubber band to prevent any steam from escaping.

7. Place the dish in a large pan filled with boiling water, ensuring that the water reaches about halfway up the sides of the dish.

8. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and steam the pudding on medium heat for approximately three hours. Check the water level occasionally and add more boiling water if needed.

9. After three hours, remove the pudding from the pan and let it cool completely. Once cooled, you can store the pudding for several weeks in a cool, dark place until you are ready to serve it.

10. When you are ready to enjoy the Plum Pudding, steam individual slices for about 30 minutes to warm them through.

Serve the Plum Pudding with a traditional brandy or rum sauce, and garnish with holly for an authentic touch.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Spotted Dick: Another popular British steamed pudding, Spotted Dick is made with suet, flour, sugar, and currants. It is often served with custard or a warm butter sauce.

2. Sticky Toffee Pudding: A dense and moist sponge cake made with dates and covered in a rich toffee sauce. It is a beloved dessert in the United Kingdom and is often enjoyed with vanilla ice cream.

3. Bread and Butter Pudding: This classic British pudding is made with layers of buttered bread, raisins, and a rich custard mixture. Baked until golden and served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

These traditional British puddings are not only delicious but also hold a significant place in the history and culture of the British Isles. Whether enjoyed during the holiday season or as a comforting dessert throughout the year, English Plum Pudding continues to be a cherished treat for generations.

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