Introduction
Suet pudding is a classic British dessert known for its comforting, rich, and hearty flavors. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to make a CBD-infused suet pudding, elevating this traditional dish with the potential wellness benefits of CBD. The combination of the tender suet crust and the infused CBD filling creates a delightful dessert that offers a potential sense of relaxation and well-being. Join us as we delve into the step-by-step instructions for creating a CBD-infused suet pudding.
Table of Contents
- I. Ingredients
- II. Equipment
- III. Step-by-Step Instructions
- A. Making the CBD-Infused Filling
- B. Preparing the Suet Pastry
- C. Assembling and Steaming the Pudding
- IV. Tips and Variations
- V. Serving and Storage
- VI. Conclusion
- I. Ingredients:
To make a CBD-infused suet pudding, gather the following ingredients:
For the Filling
- 1 cup dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and chopped dates)
- 1/4 cup mixed candied peel
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1-2 full spectrum CBD oil drops (optional, for CBD infusion)
- 1/4 cup rum or brandy (optional, for additional flavor)
For the Suet Pastry
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup shredded beef suet
- Pinch of salt
- Cold water (as needed)
- II. Equipment:
Before starting the recipe, ensure you have the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Fork
- Pudding basin or heatproof bowl
- Parchment paper
- Aluminum foil
- Steamer or large pot with a steaming rack
III. Step-by-Step Instructions
A. Making the CBD-Infused Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits, candied peel, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- If desired, add 1-2 full spectrum CBD oil drops to the filling mixture. The CBD oil can provide potential wellness benefits, but ensure you follow the dosage instructions provided with your CBD oil and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.
- Optional: Pour the rum or brandy over the filling mixture and stir to coat the fruits. This will add a delicious depth of flavor to the filling.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the filling mixture marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dried fruits to absorb the liquid.
B. Preparing the Suet Pastry
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and a pinch of salt.
- Add the shredded beef suet to the flour mixture. Use a fork or your fingers to incorporate the suet into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, while mixing with a fork. Continue adding water until the mixture comes together to form a soft, pliable dough.
- Once the dough has formed, lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough gently for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
C. Assembling and Steaming the Pudding
- Grease a pudding basin or heatproof bowl with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the greased pudding basin, then press it firmly into the base to prevent the pudding from sticking.
- Take about two-thirds of the suet pastry dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to line the pudding basin. The circle should be approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out pastry to the pudding basin, gently pressing it against the sides and ensuring there are no air pockets.
- Spoon the CBD-infused filling mixture into the pastry-lined pudding basin, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Roll out the remaining one-third of the suet pastry dough into a circle slightly larger than the top of the pudding basin. This will be the lid of the pudding.
- Place the pastry lid over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. Trim off any excess pastry using a sharp knife.
- Cut a square piece of aluminum foil and parchment paper larger than the pudding basin. Lay the aluminum foil on top of the parchment paper, then fold a pleat in the center to allow room for the pudding to expand while steaming.
- Place the aluminum foil and parchment paper on top of the pudding basin, ensuring it covers the entire top and sides. Secure it tightly by tying kitchen twine around the rim of the basin.
- Prepare a steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack. Fill the pot with enough water to reach the bottom of the steaming rack, but not touching the pudding basin.
- Place the covered pudding basin on the steaming rack, cover the pot with a lid, and bring the water to a gentle boil.
- Steam the suet pudding for about 2 to 2.5 hours, ensuring that the water level is maintained throughout the steaming process. Add more boiling water if necessary.
- After the steaming time has elapsed, carefully remove the pudding from the pot and let it cool slightly in the basin.
- Once cooled, remove the aluminum foil and parchment paper from the top of the pudding basin.
- To serve, run a knife around the edge of the pudding to loosen it. Place a serving plate on top of the pudding basin, then invert the basin and plate together to release the pudding onto the plate.
- Serve the CBD-infused suet pudding warm with a drizzle of custard, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The flavors and potential wellness benefits of CBD will complement the rich and comforting taste of the pudding.
IV. Tips and Variations
- CBD Dosage: If you choose to infuse your suet pudding with CBD, add 1-2 full spectrum CBD oil drops to the filling mixture during the assembly process. Ensure you follow the dosage instructions provided with your CBD oil and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.
- Flavorful Additions: Customize your suet pudding by incorporating additional flavors such as grated citrus zest, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling mixture.
- Individual Portions: Instead of using a large pudding basin, you can divide the suet pastry and filling mixture into individual ramekins or small heatproof bowls for individual-sized puddings. Adjust the steaming time accordingly.
V. Serving and Storage
- Serve the CBD-infused suet pudding immediately while it is still warm and comforting. It pairs well with custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
- Leftover pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or steam them briefly before serving.
VI. Conclusion
By following this comprehensive guide, you can create a delightful CBD-inf