This holiday season, treat yourself to a festive pudding that perfectly combines rich, fruity flavors with a hint of warming spices. Chef Jamey Pienaar, celebrated for his innovative twists on traditional dishes, shares his recipe for this delightful dessert, guaranteed to enhance any festive gathering.
The essential ingredients for this pudding include a mix of citrus zest, dried fruits, and a variety of spices that create a comforting, aromatic experience. Not only is the pudding visually appealing with its deep color and texture, but it also delivers a burst of flavor with every bite, making it an ideal dish for holiday celebrations.
Chef Pienaar’s festive pudding pairs wonderfully with a spoonful of brandy butter or cream, adding an extra layer of indulgence. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or as part of a larger holiday feast, this pudding is destined to become a seasonal favorite.
Make sure to prepare this classic dessert for your next holiday event. Chef Jamey Pienaar’s festive pudding with citrus and spice will have your guests reminiscing about its delicious taste long after the festivities are over.
Festive Pudding with Citrus and Spice – Recipe by Chef Jamey Pienaar
Ingredients:
For the Pudding:
200g mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
100g chopped dried apricots
50g mixed peel (candied citrus peel)
1 medium apple, grated
150g breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
100g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cloves
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
2 large eggs
100g dark brown sugar
100g unsalted butter, melted
150ml milk
50ml brandy (optional, can be replaced with orange juice for non-alcoholic version)
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
For the Brandy Butter (Optional):
100g unsalted butter, softened
100g powdered sugar
2 tbsp brandy (or more to taste)
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pudding:
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 1.2L (5-cup) pudding basin or heatproof bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits, mixed peel, and grated apple. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Add the breadcrumbs to the dry mixture and stir well.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until well combined. Add the melted butter, milk, brandy (or orange juice), vanilla extract, and citrus zest, then mix everything together.
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until fully combined, ensuring the fruit and breadcrumb mixture is evenly distributed.
Steam the Pudding:
Spoon the pudding mixture into the prepared basin, making sure to pack it down and smooth the top.
Cover the basin with a piece of parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel, securing it with foil around the rim. If you have a lid, ensure it fits tightly.
Place the pudding basin into a large saucepan or steamer. Add enough water to the saucepan so that it reaches halfway up the sides of the pudding basin.
Bring the water to a simmer, then cover the saucepan with a lid and steam for 2 to 2.5 hours. Occasionally check the water level, adding more hot water if needed.
After 2.5 hours, take the pudding out of the saucepan and let it cool slightly before serving.
Make the Brandy Butter (Optional):
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, brandy, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Adjust the amount of brandy to suit your taste for a stronger or milder flavor.
Serve:
Once the pudding has cooled a bit, invert it onto a serving plate. Slice and serve warm, with a dollop of brandy butter on the side.
For an extra festive touch, consider adding whipped cream or custard as an accompaniment.
Enjoy your festive pudding with citrus and spice—a delightful holiday treat to share with family and friends!
