Clootie Dumpling Recipe
Today, we’re diving into the heart of Scottish culinary heritage with this classic Clootie Dumpling Recipe. This traditional steamed pudding, bursting with dried fruits, spices, and the unique addition of suet, is wrapped in a cloth (or “cloot”) and gently simmered for hours, resulting in a deliciously rich and comforting dessert. Perfect for festive celebrations or a cosy family gathering, this Clootie Dumpling is sure to become a cherished favourite.
History
The term “Clootie” comes from the Scots word for cloth, “cloot,” which plays a crucial role in the dumpling’s preparation. The method of wrapping the mixture in a cloth and simmering it dates back centuries and has been a staple in Scottish households, especially during celebrations like Hogmanay or Burns Night. This cooking technique gives the dumpling its distinctive skin and imparts a wonderful depth of flavour and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Clootie Dumpling can be served in a variety of delightful ways:
- Traditional Style: Serve warm slices with a generous helping of custard, cream, or vanilla ice cream.
- Next-Day Breakfast: Fry slices of the dumpling in a bit of butter until crispy and serve alongside a hearty Scottish breakfast.
- Festive Touch: Add a drizzle of whisky sauce for an extra indulgent treat during festive occasions.
Storing Instructions
To store any leftover Clootie Dumpling:
- Refrigeration: Place the cooled dumpling in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the dumpling tightly in cling film and then in aluminium foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your Clootie Dumpling while maintaining its delicious flavour and texture:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Wrap the dumpling in foil and place it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave Method: Place a slice of the dumpling on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it’s heated evenly.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savouring this traditional Clootie Dumpling as much as we do! It’s a delightful way to experience a piece of Scottish heritage and share a hearty, comforting dessert with loved ones. We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe—please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and sign up for our newsletter for more delightful culinary adventures!
How to Make Clootie Dumpling Recipe
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Clootie Dumpling Recipe
Description
Experience the rich and comforting flavours of a classic Clootie Dumpling, a traditional Scottish steamed pudding. Filled with dried fruits, warming spices, and suet, this dessert is wrapped in a cloth and simmered to perfection. Whether served warm with custard, cream, or ice cream, or enjoyed fried for breakfast the next day, this Clootie Dumpling is a delightful treat steeped in Scottish heritage.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Cloot:
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Boil the Cloth
Place a large piece of muslin or a cotton dish towel in boiling water.
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Wring the Cloth
Once cool enough to handle, wring out the excess water.
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Flour the Cloth
Lay the cloth on a clean surface and sprinkle with flour.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
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Sieve the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sieve the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, mixed spice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and sea salt.
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Add Remaining Dry Ingredients
Stir in the caster sugar, suet, sultanas, currants, raisins, and grated apple.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
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Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the black treacle, marmalade, beaten egg, and buttermilk.
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Combine with Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Form the Dumpling:
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Place Mixture in Cloth
Place the mixture into the centre of the prepared cloth.
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Secure the Cloth
Gather the edges of the cloth and tie securely with string, leaving some room for the dumpling to expand.
Simmer the Dumpling:
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Prepare the Pot
Place a heatproof plate or trivet in the bottom of a large pot.
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Place Dumpling in Pot
Place the dumpling on top, knotted side up.
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Add Water
Pour enough water to almost cover the dumpling.
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Simmer
Cover the pot with a lid and simmer gently for 3 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the water level remains high enough. Top up with boiling water if necessary.
Dry the Dumpling:
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
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Drain the Dumpling
Carefully remove the dumpling from the pot and place it in a colander to drain.
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Dip in Cold Water
Briefly dip the dumpling in cold water to prevent sticking.
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Bake the Dumpling
Remove the cloth and place the dumpling on an ovenproof dish. Bake for 15 minutes to dry the skin.
Serve:
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Slice and Serve
Slice the dumpling and serve warm with custard, cream, or ice cream.
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Alternative Serving
Alternatively, fry slices the next day and serve with breakfast.
Equipment
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- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 280kcal
- Calories from Fat 72kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Potassium 200mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 30g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 50 IU
- Vitamin C 1 mg
- Calcium 40 mg
- Iron 1.5 mg
- Vitamin E 0.5 IU
- Vitamin K 1 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Ensure the cloth is well floured to prevent the dumpling from sticking.
- For a less sweet dumpling, reduce the caster sugar to 150g.
- Traditionally served during festive occasions but perfect any time of year.
- Enjoy leftovers by frying slices for a hearty breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare the Clootie Dumpling a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving to enjoy it at its best.
You can use a large piece of muslin or a clean cotton dish towel. Ensure it is well-floured to prevent sticking.
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other dried fruits like apricots, dates, or prunes to customise the flavour to your liking.
Yes, you can use vegetarian suet in place of beef suet without compromising the traditional taste and texture.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the dumpling tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
Yes, to reheat without drying out, wrap the dumpling in foil and heat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual slices covered with a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes.
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Fiona O'Sullivan
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