Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Gluten-Free Spotted Dick Pudding?
It is a gluten-free twist on a traditional British dessert made with shredded beef suet, sweet rice flour, and dried fruits like currants and raisins.
What makes this pudding recipe gluten-free?
This recipe uses a blend of sweet rice flour and cornstarch or tapioca starch instead of traditional wheat flour.
What kind of suet is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of cold, shredded beef suet that is specifically gluten-free.
How should I mix the dry ingredients?
Combine the suet, sweet rice flour, cornstarch, baking powder, xanthan gum, and salt in a food processor or high-speed blender and pulse until thoroughly mixed.
Can I substitute the cornstarch?
Yes, you can use tapioca starch as an alternative to cornstarch in this recipe.
What role does xanthan gum play in this recipe?
Xanthan gum acts as a binding agent to help provide structure to the gluten-free dough.
How do I incorporate the wet ingredients?
Add the egg to the dry mixture and mix gently, then gradually pour in the milk until a cohesive dough forms.
What fruits are included in this Spotted Dick?
The pudding contains 1/4 cup of currants and 1/4 cup of raisins.
Is there any citrus in the recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes the zest of one lemon to add a refreshing note.
What type of container should I use for steaming?
You can use a greased 4-cup pudding basin or a 4-cup Pyrex glass measuring cup.
How do I seal the pudding basin?
Cover the basin with parchment paper followed by aluminum foil, then secure the edges tightly with an elastic band or twine.
How much water is needed for the Instant Pot method?
Pour 3-4 cups of water into the Instant Pot, ensuring it covers the bottom before placing the steamer rack.
What is the cooking time in an Instant Pot?
Set the Instant Pot to 'Steam' or 'Manual' for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Should I use a natural or quick release for the Instant Pot?
The recipe recommends a Quick Release once the cooking time is complete.
How long should the pudding cool before serving?
Let the pudding basin cool for about 5 minutes before removing the covers and inverting it onto a plate.
What is the best way to serve this dessert?
Slice the pudding and serve it warm, traditionally drizzled with luscious custard.
Can I make this on a stovetop?
Yes, while instructions focus on the Instant Pot, it can also be steamed on the stove using traditional methods.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total, including the flour blend, suet, fruit, and leavening agents.
What is the texture of the finished pudding?
The pudding has a moist and tender texture thanks to the beef suet and rice flour blend.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is tagged as a holiday treat and is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
How much milk is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of milk.
How much baking powder is used?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of baking powder for leavening.
Do I need to use my hands to mix the dough?
Yes, you may need to use your hands to fully incorporate the mixture and to fold in the currants, raisins, and lemon zest.
Why is it called 'Spotted Dick'?
The name refers to the 'spots' created by the dried currants and raisins throughout the pudding.
What is the quantity of sweet rice flour needed?
You will need 3/4 cup of sweet rice flour.
Can I use cold suet?
Yes, the recipe specifically notes that the shredded beef suet should be cold.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of salt is added to the dry mixture.
How much egg is needed?
The recipe requires one egg.
What is the total preparation and cooking approach?
The approach involves mixing a suet-based dough and steaming it to achieve a traditional British pudding consistency.
Is this a sweet or savory pudding?
This is a sweet dessert pudding, categorized under desserts and holiday treats.