British people often use the term "pudding" to refer to both sweet and savory dishes, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with British cuisine. In the UK, "pudding" can mean a dessert or a specific type of savory dish, depending on the context.
What Do British People Call Puddings?
In the UK, the word "pudding" is commonly used as a synonym for dessert. However, it also refers to specific traditional British dishes that can be either sweet or savory. This dual usage is rooted in British culinary history, where puddings were originally savory dishes made from meat and suet.
The Sweet Side of Puddings
When British people refer to "pudding" in the context of dessert, they might be talking about:
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: A moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, covered in a toffee sauce and often served with vanilla custard or ice cream.
- Spotted Dick: A steamed suet pudding containing dried fruits, usually currants or raisins, served with custard.
- Bread and Butter Pudding: Layers of buttered bread, often with raisins or other dried fruits, baked in an egg custard.
Savory Puddings in British Cuisine
Savory puddings are less common but still hold a place in traditional British cooking:
- Yorkshire Pudding: A batter made from flour, eggs, and milk, baked until puffy and golden. It is typically served with roast beef and gravy.
- Black Pudding: A type of blood sausage made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal. It is often served as part of a full English breakfast.
- Steak and Kidney Pudding: A suet pastry filled with diced beef, kidney, and onion, steamed until tender.
Why Is "Pudding" Used for Both Sweet and Savory Dishes?
The term "pudding" has evolved over centuries. Originally, puddings were savory dishes made by boiling or steaming ingredients in a cloth or casing. As British cuisine evolved, the term expanded to include sweet dishes, especially those that are steamed or have a similar texture.
How Do British Desserts Differ from Puddings?
While all puddings can be considered desserts, not all desserts are puddings. British desserts might include:
- Trifle: A layered dessert with sponge cake, fruit, jelly, custard, and whipped cream.
- Eton Mess: A mixture of strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped cream.
- Victoria Sponge: A classic sponge cake filled with jam and cream.
People Also Ask
What Is the Difference Between a Pudding and a Cake?
A pudding is typically steamed or boiled, resulting in a denser texture, whereas a cake is baked, making it lighter and airier. Puddings often have a moist, custard-like consistency.
Is Black Pudding a Dessert?
No, black pudding is a savory dish. It is a type of blood sausage made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, and is a common component of a traditional full English breakfast.
Why Is Yorkshire Pudding Called a Pudding?
Yorkshire pudding is called a pudding because of its traditional method of preparation. It is made from a simple batter and baked until puffy, often served as a savory accompaniment to roast beef.
What Are Some Popular British Desserts?
Popular British desserts include trifle, Eton mess, and Victoria sponge cake. Each of these desserts offers a unique taste and texture, showcasing the diversity of British sweets.
Can Puddings Be Served Cold?
Yes, some puddings, such as trifle and Eton mess, are served cold, while others, like sticky toffee pudding and bread and butter pudding, are typically served warm.
Conclusion
Understanding what British people call puddings requires a look into the rich culinary tradition of the UK. Whether sweet or savory, puddings are a staple of British cuisine, reflecting a blend of historical and modern influences. If you’re interested in exploring more about British culinary traditions, consider looking into the history of the full English breakfast or the evolution of British cakes.
