Plum pudding

The ideal dessert for a fall evening or a weekend lunch, plum pudding combines the simplicity of ingredients with a delicious and comforting taste. This recipe blends the natural sweetness of plums with a fine, fluffy texture, transforming it into a dessert that will delight even the most discerning guests.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 60 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients needed for plum pudding:

- 1 kg of ripe plums (choose juicy plums for an intense flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the plums)
- 200 g of flour (wheat flour is ideal, but for a gluten-free version, you can use almond or rice flour)
- 1/2 packet of baking powder (make sure it's fresh for a fluffy texture)
- 125 g of margarine (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 1 egg (the base for binding the ingredients)
- 120 ml of milk (milk can be substituted with plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar for caramelizing the plums

Preparing the plum pudding:

1. Preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums thoroughly, ensuring they are clean. Cut them into quarters and remove the pits. This step is crucial to avoid any bitterness from the pits in the dish.

2. Caramelizing the plums: In a saucepan, add the cut plums, 100 ml of water, and the 4 tablespoons of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and let the plums simmer, stirring gently from time to time, until they become soft and juicy (about 10-15 minutes). They will turn into a delicious sauce that will add extra flavor to your pudding.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and the 4 tablespoons of sugar. Add the cubed margarine and rub it with your fingers until you achieve a sandy texture. This is a crucial step, as it will determine the final consistency of the pudding.

4. Adding the liquid ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the beaten egg. Gradually incorporate the milk while stirring continuously until you obtain a smooth and pourable batter.

5. Assembling the dish: Grease a tart pan with margarine (or individual small molds, as preferred). Place the caramelized plums at the bottom of the pan, adding the sauce obtained as well. Spread the batter evenly over the plums in the pan, ensuring they are completely covered.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and let the pudding bake for 40 minutes or until it turns golden and firm to the touch. A trick to check if it's done is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the pudding is ready.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the pudding is baked, let it cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan, then carefully invert it onto a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

This plum pudding is perfect served warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful experience. You can also pair it with a fragrant herbal tea or a sweet white wine for a more sophisticated dessert.

Nutritional benefits of plums: These fruits are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, offering beneficial effects on digestion and the immune system. Additionally, consuming plums can help maintain heart and skin health.

Variations of the recipe: You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apples, which, like plums, caramelize beautifully. Also, adding a tablespoon of cinnamon or vanilla to the batter can enhance the flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen plums? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- How can I store the pudding? It keeps well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- Can I make the pudding without sugar? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like stevia or honey, adjusting the amount according to your preferences.

In conclusion, plum pudding is a simple yet impressive dessert that blends tradition with modernity. It is not only a great way to use seasonal fruits but also a recipe that can bring joy at any time of the day. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones and share the joy of cooking!