| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 2 hours – 3 hours | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 9g | 4.5g | 57g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 32g | 3g | 6g | 0.18g |
Growing up in California’s sunny valleys, I was exposed to a myriad of fresh, local ingredients that fostered a deep appreciation for food that not only tantalizes the palate, but also nourishes the body. Among the many gems gleaming in my recipe repertoire, this delectable dish holds a special place in my heart. A fruit-based delight christened as Christmas Pudding with Mace, it integrates bold flavors with nutritional benefits, turning every bite into a festive celebration.
The Gift of Warmth and Comfort
The Christmas Pudding with Mace brings the taste of comforting, classic American desserts into the heart of your kitchen. It shares similarities with festive treats like the iconic English Christmas Pudding and panettone. Taking a bite transports you to a cozy, living room setting adorned with twinkling fairy lights and a roaring fireplace — it is the embodiment of wholesome family gatherings that imbue warmth and comfort in the chilly holiday season.
Healthy Indulgence
However, it’s not all about indulgence with this recipe. The use of raisins, currants, and apple gratify your sweet tooth while supplying essential nutrients like dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Almonds, another ingredient, are well-known for their heart-friendly properties. Interestingly, mace, an often overlooked spice, boasts significant health advantages as well, ranging from aiding digestion to easing pain (source). Therefore, while you savour the Christmas Pudding with Mace’s delightful sweetness, you can also feel good about a healthier indulgence.
A Versatile Showstopper
This splendid dish can also play a versatile role in your festive menu. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine, it complements hearty roasts, and it works exceptionally well with a side of custard or a dollop of cream. Whether you incorporate it into a grand Christmas feast or keep it as the star of a quiet family dinner, the Christmas Pudding with Mace never fails to impress.
To me, this recipe represents what I love most about cooking – the ability to inspire joy, provide sustenance, and create memorable moments. It encapsulates the marriage between the Californian ethos of health-conscious eating and classic American comfort food. So, this holiday season, why not create delectable memories with the Christmas Pudding with Mace?
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups of raisins
- 1 cup of currants
- 1/4 cup of chopped candied peel
- 1/2 cup of chopped blanched almonds
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp of nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp of mace
- 1/4 tsp of cinnamon
- 1/2 stick of unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small apple, peeled and grated
- 2 tbsp of dark rum
- 2 tbsp of brandy
- 1/4 cup of stout beer
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- Zest of 1/2 an orange
Method
Step One
In a large mixing bowl, combine the raisins, currants, candied peel, chopped blanched almonds, flour, breadcrumbs, and brown sugar.
Step Two
Start seasoning the mixture with the nutmeg, mace, and cinnamon. Thoroughly mix until the spices are well dispersed.
Step Three
In a separate smaller bowl, beat the two large eggs. Then add the grated apple, the dark rum, brandy, and stout beer. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
Step Four
Add the zest and juice of half a lemon and the zest of half an orange to the liquid mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Five
Melt the unsalted butter and add it to the dry ingredients mixture. Mix well to combine.
Step Six
Gradually add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing constantly to ensure an even distribution and to avoid clumps.
Step Seven
Once the mixtures are fully combined, transfer it into a buttered pudding mold. Cover it tightly with a piece of buttered foil and steam for about 4-5 hours.
Step Eight
Carefully remove the pudding from the steamer and allow it to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your Christmas Pudding with Mace!
