Prepare to be transported to the rolling green hills of Ireland with a dish that's both comforting and surprisingly elegant. Coreen Conroy's Leek Pudding is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms humble ingredients into a masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This traditional Irish comfort food is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen, promising a delightful blend of creamy texture, rich flavors, and pure, wholesome goodness.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 leeks, cleaned and chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly clean the leeks by removing the root and dark green tops, then slice them into thin rounds, ensuring all dirt and sand are washed away.
- In a large saucepan, gently sauté the chopped leeks in a small amount of butter over medium-low heat until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined, creating a smooth liquid base for the pudding.
- Add the breadcrumbs to the egg and milk mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and create a consistent texture.
- Fold the softened leeks into the breadcrumb mixture, seasoning generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Grease a pudding dish or ceramic baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Pour the leek and breadcrumb mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pudding dish in the center rack.
- Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set with a slight wobble in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the pudding rest for 5-10 minutes to allow it to firm up before serving.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cleaning Leeks is Crucial: Take extra time to thoroughly wash your leeks. Sand and dirt can hide between the layers, so slice them and rinse under running water to ensure a clean, grit-free result.
- Low and Slow Sautéing: When cooking leeks, use medium-low heat to soften them gently. This prevents burning and helps develop a sweet, mellow flavor.
- Breadcrumb Consistency Matters: Use fresh breadcrumbs if possible, and mix them thoroughly to avoid lumps in your pudding.
- Don't Overcook: Watch your pudding carefully in the last 10 minutes of baking. You want a golden top and a slightly wobbly center for the perfect texture.
- Resting is Key: Allow the pudding to rest after baking. This helps it set and makes serving much easier.
- Serving Suggestions: Try garnishing with fresh chives or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted meats.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
