Highland Heather Pudding

Background and History

Highland Heather Pudding is a traditional Scottish dessert that captures the essence of the rugged Scottish Highlands. This pudding is flavored with heather, a flowering plant that is synonymous with Scotland's wild landscapes. Heather has been used historically in traditional Scottish foods, not only for its distinctive floral aroma but also because of its abundance in the Highlands.

The dessert first gained popularity in the late 18th century when Scots began incorporating local plants and flowers into culinary recipes to bring a unique taste to their tables. Its rustic roots have been preserved through generations, making it a beloved dish that connects Scots with their heritage.

In this recipe, the subtle, aromatic qualities of heather are complemented by the creamy texture of the pudding, offering a delightful dessert that both comforts and captivates.

Ingredients

• Heather - 2 tablespoons
• Milk - 2 cups
• Double Cream - 1 cup
• Sugar - ½ cup
• Honey - 2 tablespoons
• Gelatin - 2 teaspoons
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Almonds, toasted and crushed – for garnishing

Preparation

Preparation is key to capturing the wild, aromatic essence of heather in your dessert. Start by gently rinsing the heather under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Allow it to dry on a paper towel.

Next, prepare a gelatin mixture by sprinkling the gelatin over a quarter cup of cold milk. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes until it forms a thick, jelly-like consistency.

Cooking Process

Begin by gently heating the remaining milk and cream in a saucepan over low heat. Add the heather to the mixture, allowing it to infuse its aromatic flavors into the milk and cream. This infusion should take about 10 to 15 minutes but ensure the liquid does not boil to prevent the flavors and aromas from dissipating.

After the infusion period, strain the mixture to remove the heather flowers. Return the liquid to the saucepan.

Add the bloomed gelatin to the saucepan and stir gently over low heat until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Stir in the sugar and honey, ensuring they dissolve completely and evenly distribute throughout the mixture. Finally, add the vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor.

Once everything is thoroughly combined and dissolved, pour the mixture into individual molds or a large pudding basin if you prefer a single, shared dessert presentation. Set it aside to cool at room temperature for an hour before transferring it to the refrigerator.

The pudding will need to set completely in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. If preparing for a special occasion, make this a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up properly.

Enjoying Highland Heather Pudding

To serve, unmold the pudding onto a decorative plate. Garnish with toasted almonds for a contrasting crunch and an extra nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the aromatic heather. For a more traditional touch, consider adding a drizzle of honey over the pudding.

This dessert is best enjoyed with a dram of Scottish whisky or a warm cup of herbal tea; both pair beautifully with the floral notes of the heather and provide a delightful end to a meal. Highland Heather Pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of Scottish tradition, bringing a touch of the Highlands to your dining table.