| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins – 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 295 | 1.1g | 0.5g | 67g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 37g | 3.6g | 4.2g | 0.42g |
About Gluten-Free Barmbrack
There’s nothing quite like a steaming slice of Gluten-Free Barmbrack as the centerpiece of a leisurely Sunday brunch. This unique bread is a gastronomic delight, packed with delicious morsels of raisins, sultanas, and mixed peel embedded within a fluffy, gluten-free crumb. Let’s find out more about this delectable treat.
The Lore and Love of Gluten-Free Barmbrack
Origins rooted in Irish cuisine, Barmbrack traditionally plays a crucial part in Halloween festivities. However, our adopted version caters to those living a gluten-free lifestyle without sacrificing the classic, robust flavors. The utilization of ingredients like xanthan gum gives the Barmbrack its signature tender texture, while the inclusion of robust spices and dried fruits makes it an indulgent treat.
The Complementary Concoctions
The Gluten-Free Barmbrack stands tall and tasty on its own. However, it’s versatile enough to complement several other dishes. This bread, with its sweet and spicy nuance, pairs perfectly with a hearty bowl of vegetable soup, adding a sweet contrast to the savory notes. You could even serve it alongside a cheddar-y, baked egg dish for a more eclectic brunch spread. However you choose to serve your Gluten-Free Barmbrack, it’s destined to steal the show.
Making Your Own Barmbrack
Prepping your own Gluten-Free Barmbrack does require a bit of time and patience. It involves steeping your chosen morsels in strong tea to imbue them with a rich, aromatic flavor profile. There’s also the art of mixing the gluten-free dough just right, ensuring a pillowy, light finish that will leave your guests asking for seconds. However, the rewarding sense of accomplishment that comes from presenting your homemade loaf is truly priceless.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of gluten-free flour
- 1 cup of raisins
- 1/2 cup of sultanas
- 1/4 cup of mixed peel
- 1/2 cup of strong tea
- 1 tsp. of xanthan gum
- 1/2 tsp. of baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tsp. of mixed spice
- 1 apple, grated
- Butter for greasing
Method
Step One
Start by soaking the raisins, sultanas, and mixed peel in the strong tea. Leave them to soak overnight for the best results. This will allow the dried fruit to absorb the tea, giving your Barmbrack a rich and flavourful base.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum, baking soda, brown sugar, and mixed spice. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are distributed evenly throughout the mix.
Step Three
Once your dried fruit has soaked in the tea, drain the liquid but reserve it for later use. Add the drained fruit to your flour mix along with the grated apple. Stir well until all the fruit is coated in the flour mix.
Step Four
Break the egg into a separate bowl and beat it lightly. Then, add the beaten egg to the flour and fruit mixture. Mix well. If your dough appears too dry, add small amounts of the reserved tea liquid to loosen it. The dough should be wet but not too sticky.
Step Five
Butter a loaf tin or similar baking dish and transfer your dough into it. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the dough into the corners of the tin and smooth the surface.
Step Six
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Once your oven is at the correct temperature, place your loaf tin in the oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The Barmbrack is ready when it is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Step Seven
Allow the Barmbrack to cool in the tin before removing it. Once cool, cut into slices and serve. Enjoy your homemade Gluten-Free Barmbrack!
