Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey back in time? This isn't your grandma's Indian pudding (though she might have loved it!), it's a recipe inspired by the legendary Durgin Park restaurant in Boston, a place steeped in history and renowned for its hearty New England fare. This recipe captures the essence of their famous Indian pudding – a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for chilly evenings or a special occasion, this delicious dish is a delightful blend of spices, sweetness, and a wonderfully creamy texture. Get ready to experience a taste of New England history in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, molasses, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This ensures all the spices are evenly distributed and prevents clumping later.
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Whisk in Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the milk to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This step is crucial for a smooth pudding texture.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl, then add them to the cornmeal mixture along with the vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.
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Stir in Raisins (Optional): If using raisins, gently fold them into the batter. If you prefer a raisin-free version, simply skip this step.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Place the dish in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish – this creates a water bath, ensuring even baking and preventing the pudding from cracking.
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Oven Time: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The pudding should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
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Cool and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let the pudding cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly. Serve warm or cold, and enjoy this delightful taste of New England tradition!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Indian Pudding:
- Don't rush the whisking: Thoroughly whisking the ingredients prevents lumps and ensures a smoother, more enjoyable texture.
- Use a water bath: The water bath ensures even baking and prevents the pudding from becoming dry or cracking.
- Check for doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Let it cool: Allowing the pudding to cool completely enhances its flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spiced it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warm and comforting twist.
- Sweeten it up: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter pudding.
- Nutty delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: Around 8-10g Protein: Around 6-8g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This recipe is a delightful exploration of homemade cooking, offering a healthy meal that's perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the rich history and the delicious taste of this classic New England dessert!