Pudding and souse is a traditional dish from Barbados that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. It is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to beach picnics. In this article, we will explore the history and recipe of pudding and souse.
History
Pudding and souse has its roots in African and European cuisine. The dish was created by enslaved Africans in Barbados who were given the leftover parts of pigs, such as the ears, snout, and feet. These parts were boiled and seasoned with herbs and spices to make souse. The pudding was made from the sweet potato, which was a staple crop on the island. Over time, the dish evolved to include other ingredients, such as onions, peppers, and thyme.
Recipe
Ingredients:
1 lb. pork tongue, ears, feet, or snout
1 onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
2 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp. sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 sweet potatoes, grated
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 cup cold water
1 tbsp. butter, melted
Instructions:
Clean and prepare the pork by washing it thoroughly and removing any excess fat.
Place the pork in a pot and cover it with water. Add the chopped onion, green pepper, red pepper, thyme leaves, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Bring the pot to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer the pork for 2 to 3 hours, or until it is tender.
While the pork is simmering, prepare the pudding. In a bowl, mix together the grated sweet potatoes, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
Add the cold water and melted butter to the bowl and mix until a smooth batter forms.
Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pudding is cooked through.
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice it into thin pieces.
To serve, place a slice of pudding on a plate and top it with a few slices of the pork souse.
Garnish with additional chopped herbs or hot pepper sauce, if desired.
Enjoy your homemade pudding and souse with friends and family, and experience the taste of Barbados' rich culinary heritage.
You can check out this authentic homemade recipe