Christmas Pudding Recipe


Christmas Pudding Recipe



30 min
2 people
15 min




Introduction:

 

Ah, Christmas pudding – a timeless tradition that fills the air with warmth and nostalgia. I remember the first time I encountered this iconic dessert; it was during a festive gathering at my grandparents' house. As a child, I was intrigued by the rich aroma that wafted from the kitchen, drawing me closer to discover the source of such deliciousness. There, amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, stood my grandmother, proudly presenting her masterpiece – a steaming, gloriously adorned Christmas pudding. Since that moment, Christmas pudding has held a special place in my heart, symbolizing the essence of holiday gatherings and the joy of shared traditions. Now, I'm thrilled to share with you our cherished family recipe for this quintessential Christmas delight.

 

 

 

Christmas Pudding Recipe by Chef Ajay Chopra

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 1 bowl soaked dry fruits
  • 80-100 gm butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (maida)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp nutmeg powder
  • 2 tsp mixed spice powder (cinnamon, cardamom, clove)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tbsp orange juice

To Garnish:

  • Custard sauce
  • Cherries
  • Icing sugar

 

 

Method:

 

  1. Prepare the Soaked Dry Fruits:

    • Soak the dry fruits in any desired juice or alcohol for at least 1 month. Alternatively, boil the dry fruits in juice or liquid for a quicker process and let them soak for 2 days.

  2. Prepare the Batter:

    • In a bowl, whisk together the butter and brown sugar until the mixture is soft and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture and whisk until well combined.

  3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

    • In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, bread crumbs, nutmeg powder, and mixed spice powder (cinnamon, cardamom, clove).

  4. Combine the Batter:

    • Once the butter-sugar-egg mixture is well combined, add the soaked dry fruits to it.
    • Then, add the dry ingredients mixture to the batter and combine everything well. If the batter is too thick, add a little orange juice to adjust the consistency.

  5. Bake the Pudding:

    • Grease a cake tin with butter and pour the batter into it. Wrap the tin with foil.
    • In a pressure cooker, add some water. Place the cake tin in the pressure cooker and cover it with the lid.
    • Cook the pudding in the pressure cooker for 8-10 whistles.

  6. Serve:

    • Once cooked, remove the pudding from the pressure cooker and let it cool.
    • Cut the pudding into desired pieces and serve.
    • Garnish with custard sauce, cherries, and a sprinkle of icing sugar.
    • Enjoy this delightful Christmas pudding with your loved ones!

 

Note: This Christmas pudding is rich in flavors and perfect for celebrating the festive season with family and friends.

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, is a traditional British dessert that dates back centuries. It is typically made with a rich blend of dried fruits, spices, suet, breadcrumbs, and alcohol, all steamed to perfection. Despite its name, Christmas pudding doesn't necessarily contain plums; instead, it traditionally includes ingredients like raisins, currants, and candied peel. This decadent pudding is often served during the holiday season, especially on Christmas Day, and is accompanied by brandy sauce, custard, or whipped cream. It's a symbol of togetherness and celebration, bringing families and friends together to savor the flavors of the season.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

  1. Soak the dried fruits in alcohol overnight to plump them up and infuse them with flavor before adding them to the pudding mixture.
  2. Use a combination of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves to enhance the flavor profile of the pudding.
  3. Ensure the pudding basin is well greased and lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after steaming.
  4. Steam the pudding for several hours to allow the flavors to develop fully; a longer steaming time results in a richer and more matured pudding.
  5. Store leftover Christmas pudding in the refrigerator for up to several weeks, or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat before serving by steaming or microwaving individual portions.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Christmas pudding pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, enhancing its rich and indulgent flavors. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your Christmas dessert experience:

 

  • Serve Christmas pudding with a dollop of brandy sauce for a decadent and luxurious treat.
  • Pair it with traditional English custard for a creamy and comforting indulgence.
  • Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold textures.
  • Accompany it with whipped cream flavored with a hint of orange zest for a festive twist.

 

Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combination and create lasting memories with your loved ones during the holiday season.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas Pudding:

 

  1. Can I make Christmas pudding without alcohol?

    • Yes, you can substitute alcohol with fruit juice or apple cider in Christmas pudding recipes for a non-alcoholic version.

  2. How far in advance can I make Christmas pudding?

    • Christmas pudding can be made several weeks in advance and stored in a cool, dark place until ready to serve. Some even prefer to make it months ahead for a richer flavor.

  3. Can I steam Christmas pudding in a slow cooker?

    • Yes, you can steam Christmas pudding in a slow cooker by placing the pudding basin in the slow cooker insert and adding water to steam on low heat for the required time.

  4. What is the best way to reheat leftover Christmas pudding?

    • Reheat leftover Christmas pudding by steaming it for about 30 minutes or until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick and convenient option.

  5. Can I make Christmas pudding gluten-free?

    • Yes, you can make gluten-free Christmas pudding by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in the recipe, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

  6. How can I flambe Christmas pudding?

    • To flambe Christmas pudding, warm brandy or rum in a small saucepan, pour it over the pudding, and carefully ignite it with a long match or lighter for a dramatic presentation.

  7. What is the significance of the silver coin in Christmas pudding?

    • In traditional British folklore, finding a silver coin in your Christmas pudding is considered good luck and brings prosperity to the person who discovers it in their serving.

  8. Can I make individual-sized Christmas puddings?

    • Yes, you can make individual-sized Christmas puddings by dividing the pudding mixture among greased and lined ramekins or pudding molds before steaming.

  9. Can I make Christmas pudding without suet?

    • Yes, you can make Christmas pudding without suet by using vegetarian suet or substituting it with butter, coconut oil, or margarine in the recipe.

  10. What is the best way to serve Christmas pudding?

    • Serve Christmas pudding warm with your choice of sauce, custard, or cream for a delightful and indulgent holiday dessert experience.