Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of strong black tea
- 1 cup of mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp of baking powder
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
- 1 tsp of nutmeg
- 1 tsp of allspice
- 1 tsp of salt
Special equipment needed:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 loaf pan
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brew 2 cups of strong black tea and pour it over 1 cup of mixed dried fruit in a large mixing bowl. Let it soak for 30 minutes.
3. Add 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 egg to the bowl and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1 tsp of cinnamon, 1 tsp of nutmeg, 1 tsp of allspice, and 1 tsp of salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and pour the batter into it.
7. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the barmbrack cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
8-10 slices
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 300
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of dried fruit you like, such as apricots, figs, or dates.
- Instead of black tea, you can use any type of tea you prefer.
- You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts to the batter for extra crunch.
- Soak the dried fruit in whiskey or rum for a boozy twist.
- Add grated orange or lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to soak the dried fruit in tea for at least 30 minutes to plump them up and infuse them with flavor.
- Don't overmix the batter, or the barmbrack will be tough.
- You can serve the barmbrack warm or at room temperature.
Storage instructions:
Store the barmbrack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the barmbrack, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Slice the barmbrack and serve it on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruit on top of the barmbrack for a festive touch.
Pairings:
Serve the barmbrack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
The barmbrack is a sweet bread that can be enjoyed on its own or with a spread of butter or jam.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the barmbrack is too dry, add a splash of milk to the batter.
- If the barmbrack is too wet, add a bit more flour to the batter.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and wash your hands before handling the ingredients.
Food history:
Barmbrack is a traditional Irish bread that is typically served during Halloween. It is made with dried fruit and spices and is often baked with a ring or other trinket inside. The person who finds the ring in their slice of barmbrack is said to have good luck for the coming year.
Flavor profiles:
The barmbrack is a sweet and spicy bread that is infused with the flavors of tea, dried fruit, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the barmbrack as a dessert or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Region: Irish