Few desserts capture the essence of comfort quite like a warm, saucy ginger pot pudding. Baked until tender and drenched in a rich, caramel-like sauce, this pudding strikes the perfect balance between simple preparation and indulgent satisfaction. This ginger pot pudding recipe is the perfect conclusion to a Sunday lunch or Saturday afternoon braai—two important South African traditions.
Why make this ginger pot pudding on a fire?
Ginger pot pudding is the ultimate celebration of pantry staples and cooking it on the fire in a potjie adds a special charm you just can’t get in the oven. The gentle, even heat of the potjie creates a soft, moist, cake-like texture that’s perfect for soaking up the rich, decadent sauce poured over it while it’s still warm. Plus, the experience of cooking over a fire turns this dessert into a memorable event—whether you’re camping, braaing, or just enjoying an evening outdoors. If you love ginger-infused treats, this pudding delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a comforting, flavorful dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
How to make traditional Ginger pot pudding
This recipe is simple enough for everyday cooks and requires no fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a pot, and a baking dish with a lid or foil. Below is a straightforward recipe inspired by traditional methods, designed to bring the magic of ginger pot pudding to your table.
Classic Ginger pot pudding recipe
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 tbsp apricot jam
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda (dissolved in a little milk)
- Pinch of salt
For the syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
Instructions:
- Combine all the syrup ingredients directly in your potjie. Place the potjie over medium coals, stirring occasionally until the syrup begins to simmer gently.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, cream together the apricot jam and butter. Add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the milk and dissolved bicarbonate of soda, blending well to form a smooth batter.
- Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the simmering syrup in the potjie. Secure the potjie with its tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat by removing some coals. Allow the pudding to cook undisturbed for 15 minutes—resist the urge to lift the lid!
- Once cooked, the dough will be tender and the syrup will have thickened into a rich, flavorful sauce. Remove the potjie from the fire and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of ice cream, custard, or whipped cream, for an extra special treat around the campfire.
Why this recipe is a keeper
What makes ginger pot pudding so beloved is its adaptability and ease. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious while requiring minimal effort. It’s also a highly versatile recipe—swap the syrup flavourings, add spices, or experiment with toppings to make it your own. This is a pudding that evolves with your preferences while staying true to its comforting roots.
Ginger pot pudding: A dessert for all occasions
Ginger pot pudding isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Whether you’re entertaining a group or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this pudding promises to bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. The combination of tender sponge and syrupy richness makes it a recipe to treasure, easy enough for weeknights yet special enough for celebrations.
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