Malva Pudding is a Treasure of South African Deserts
Historical Background
Malva pudding is thought to have originated from the Dutch settlers who
arrived in South Africa during the 17th century. The name "malva" is
derived from the malva flower, known for its soft and delicate
characteristics, which reflects the pudding's texture. Traditional
recipes have evolved over time as they incorporated local ingredients
and influences from the various cultures that make up the South African
mosaic, including indigenous tribes, British colonizers, and immigrants
from India and Malaysia. The pudding itself is made from simple yet
wholesome ingredients, including flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and apricot
jam, which gives it a uniquely sweet and tangy flavor. The inclusion of
jam is a nod to the preservation methods practiced by early settlers.
Over the years, many families have added their own secret touches and
variations, ensuring that each version retains a personal significance.
Ingredients
220g caster sugar
2 free-range eggs
1T good-quality Appricot jam
175g cake flour
½t Bicarbonate of soda
¼t salt
2T butter, plus extra for greasing
½ cup milk
1T vinegar
custard, for serving
For the sauce:
1 cup cream
treacle sugar
115g butter
½ cup sherry
Method
Preheat the oven to 190°C.
Add the caster sugar, eggs and apricot jam to a large mixing bowl and
beat until pale and fluffy.
In a separate bowl, sift the cake flour, bicarbonate of soda and salt,
then whisk to incorporate. In a small saucepan over a low heat, melt
the butter, then stir in the vinegar and milk, mixing until combined.
Add the dry mixture to the sugar and egg mixture and combine. Add the
buttery milk mixture and whisk until a smooth batter forms. Grease a
large ovenproof bowl and pour in the mixture.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until sticky brown in colour and an
inserted skewer comes out clean. Pour the sauce over the warm pudding
and serve with a thick custard.
To make the sauce, place all the ingredients in a saucepan over a
medium heat and stir until the butter is melted, the sugar dissolved
and the sauce heated through.