Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey back in time? This Indian pudding recipe brings the rich, comforting flavors of Durgin Park's legendary dessert right to your kitchen. Forget complicated recipes; this classic is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with a taste of history. Get ready to experience the warm spices and creamy texture that have made this pudding a beloved favorite for generations. It's a truly delicious dish, a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, ideal for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: The Cornmeal Slurry
In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, salt, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 2: Simmering to Perfection
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low, and continue to stir frequently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened significantly.
Step 3: Sweetening the Deal
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the brown sugar and molasses. Mix until fully incorporated and the sugar has dissolved completely. Stir in the vanilla extract and raisins (if using).
Step 4: Baking to Golden Glory
Pour the pudding into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the pudding is set and lightly browned on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the pudding starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Let the pudding cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a richer, more enjoyable texture. Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful addition!
Tips for Success:
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer you simmer the pudding, the smoother and richer the texture will become.
- Constant stirring is key: This prevents lumps and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust spices to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking.
- Use quality ingredients: The flavor of this pudding greatly depends on the quality of the ingredients you use.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a nice crunch.
- Use different dried fruits: Try cranberries, chopped dates, or currants instead of raisins.
- Make it boozy: A splash of rum or bourbon adds a sophisticated touch (for adults only!).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-55g
This Indian pudding recipe is a wonderful example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas, transforming a simple dessert into a memorable culinary experience. Enjoy this taste of history and the warmth of homemade cooking!