Malabar Bread Pudding, a beloved dessert from the Malabar region of Kerala, is a rich and aromatic treat made from bread, eggs, milk, and a blend of spices. It is a popular dessert during festive occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations, known for its luscious texture and delightful flavor. Unlike traditional bread puddings, Malabar Bread Pudding has a unique twist with the addition of coconut, dry fruits, and sometimes a hint of rose water or saffron.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (preferably white bread, but you can use stale bread for better absorption)
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust according to your sweetness preference)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
- 1/4 cup of cashews (chopped)
- 1/4 cup of raisins
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp rose water (optional, for fragrance)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 2 tbsp ghee or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Begin by cutting the bread slices into small pieces. You can remove the crusts if you prefer a smoother texture, but it’s not necessary.
- Lightly toast the bread pieces in a pan for a few minutes, just to crisp them slightly. This helps the bread absorb the milk mixture better.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Custard
- In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat. Do not bring it to a boil, just heat it enough so it’s warm to the touch.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until they form a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Gradually add the warm milk to the egg-sugar mixture while whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
- Add the cardamom powder, rose water (if using), and saffron strands (if using) to this mixture and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with ghee or butter. Arrange the bread pieces in the dish, spreading them evenly across the base.
- Sprinkle the grated coconut, cashews, and raisins on top of the bread.
- Pour the prepared milk mixture over the bread, making sure the bread absorbs the liquid evenly. Press the bread gently with a spoon to help it soak in the custard.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak in the milk fully.
Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding
- Bake the bread pudding in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. You can insert a toothpick into the center to check if it comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut the Malabar Bread Pudding into squares or slices and serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- You can garnish the pudding with extra raisins, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of condensed milk or honey for an extra indulgence.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegan Version: You can make this dish vegan by substituting the milk with coconut milk and the eggs with flaxseeds or a store-bought egg replacer.
- Spices: If you love experimenting with flavors, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon along with the cardamom for a spiced twist.
- Coconut Milk: For a more authentic Malabar touch, use coconut milk instead of regular milk to infuse the pudding with a tropical flavor.
- Serving: Malabar Bread Pudding can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Why You’ll Love Malabar Bread Pudding:
Malabar Bread Pudding is an exquisite fusion of flavors that blends the comforting taste of bread with the aromatic spices of Kerala. The richness of coconut, cashews, and raisins combined with the warm spices creates a truly heavenly dessert that melts in your mouth. Whether served during the holidays or on a regular day, this dessert is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Enjoy the delicious taste of Kerala with this easy-to-make Malabar Bread Pudding recipe that captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage!
