Sourdough Bread Pudding: A Cozy Comfort Food

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Imagine a symphony of flavors, a harmonious blend of cultures, all encapsulated in a warm, comforting dish. This isn’t just a bread pudding; it’s a culinary journey, a testament to the boundless creativity that arises from the fusion of diverse culinary traditions.

Ingredients:

1 loaf stale sourdough bread, cubed

  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup raisins, soaked in rum or brandy (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
  • 1/4 cup chopped candied ginger
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon

    • Sourdough Bread Pudding
    Sourdough Bread Pudding

    Image Source: littlehomeinthemaking.com

    Preparation:

    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

    1. Prep the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
    2. Create the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
    3. Assemble the Pudding: Arrange the cubed sourdough bread in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
    4. Add the Mix-ins: Scatter the raisins, dried apricots, candied ginger, orange zest, and lemon zest over the bread and custard.
    5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
    6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

    A Global Culinary Fusion

    This recipe is a celebration of culinary diversity, drawing inspiration from various cultures:

    European Comfort: The base of this dish, sourdough bread, is a staple in many European cuisines. It’s a nod to the rustic, hearty comfort foods that have been enjoyed for centuries.

  • Asian Spice: The addition of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings a touch of Asian influence. These spices have been used for centuries in Asian cuisine to enhance flavor and promote well-being.
  • Middle Eastern Sweetness: The dried fruits, such as raisins, apricots, and candied ginger, are common ingredients in Middle Eastern desserts. They add a touch of sweetness and a burst of exotic flavor.

    • This sourdough bread pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a journey through time and space, a testament to the power of food to connect cultures and evoke emotions. Each bite is a reminder of the rich tapestry of human history and the enduring appeal of simple, delicious food.