Desserts > British Desserts > Summer British Desserts

Classic Summer Pudding Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 loaf of white bread, crusts removed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Special equipment needed:
- 1-quart pudding basin or bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Heavy weight (such as a can of beans)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the berries and place them in a saucepan with the sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and set aside to cool.

2. Line the pudding basin with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang to cover the top of the pudding.

3. Cut the bread into thin slices and use them to line the pudding basin, making sure there are no gaps.

4. Spoon the cooled berry mixture into the bread-lined basin, reserving some of the liquid.

5. Cover the top of the pudding with more bread slices, again making sure there are no gaps.

6. Pour the reserved liquid over the top of the bread, making sure it is evenly distributed.

7. Cover the top of the pudding with the overhanging plastic wrap and place a heavy weight on top.

8. Chill the pudding in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or overnight.

9. To serve, remove the weight and plastic wrap and invert the pudding onto a serving plate.

10. Garnish with fresh berries and serve with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 6 hours or overnight
Temperature:
Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 28g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any combination of berries can be used
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar
- Whole wheat bread can be used instead of white bread

Variations:
- Add a layer of whipped cream or custard between the layers of bread and berries
- Use a mixture of fresh and frozen berries
- Add a splash of liqueur to the berry mixture for an adult version

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure there are no gaps between the bread slices to prevent the berry mixture from leaking out
- Use a heavy weight to compress the pudding and help it hold its shape
- Serve with extra berry sauce or whipped cream on the side

Storage instructions:
Store leftover pudding in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
The pudding is best served cold, but can be gently reheated in the microwave or oven if desired.

Presentation ideas:
Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves for a colorful and festive presentation.

Garnishes:
Fresh berries, mint leaves, whipped cream

Pairings:
Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or lemonade for a refreshing summer treat.

Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad, grilled vegetables, or a green salad

Troubleshooting advice:
If the pudding doesn't hold its shape when inverted, it may need to chill longer or be compressed with a heavier weight.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh, ripe berries and store the pudding in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

Food history:
Summer pudding is a traditional English dessert that dates back to the 19th century.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, tangy, and fruity

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a light and refreshing dessert after a summer meal.

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Region: British

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Fruity, Creamy, Rich