Plum pudding

Plum Pudding

Plum pudding, also known as Christmas pudding, is a traditional British dessert that is typically served during the Christmas season. Despite its name, the dessert does not actually contain plums. The term "plum" in the name of this dish refers to the pre-Victorian use of the word for raisins or other dried fruits.

History

The origins of plum pudding are traced back to the Middle Ages. It evolved over centuries from a porridge-like dish known as "frumenty" that was made with beef and mutton along with raisins, currants, prunes, wines and spices. This would often be more like soup and was eaten as a fasting meal in preparation for the Christmas festivities.

By the 16th century, dried fruit was more plentiful in England and plum pudding made its way to the holiday table. The pudding was not a cake but a type of custard, thickened with eggs and breadcrumbs, similar to a Christmas cake.

Ingredients and Preparation

Traditional plum pudding contains a mixture of raisins, currants, prunes, suet, flour, bread crumbs, sugar, treacle, beer, rum, and a variety of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Some recipes also include almonds and other nuts.

The ingredients are mixed together and then steamed for several hours. In many households, it's traditional to have each family member stir the pudding mixture and make a wish. The pudding is often prepared several weeks in advance and allowed to age before it is served. It is traditionally served with a sprig of holly on top and flambéed at the table.

Cultural Significance

In England, it's a tradition to make the Christmas pudding on "Stir-up Sunday," which is the last Sunday before Advent. This gives the pudding enough time to mature before Christmas. The tradition of hiding a coin in the pudding is said to bring luck to the person who finds it.

Plum pudding is also a significant part of Christmas celebrations in other countries, including Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

See Also

• British cuisine
• Christmas traditions
• Desserts