Jiangxi-style Apple and Bread Pudding

Ingredients

In this Jiangxi-style adaptation, we infuse the traditional American Brown Betty with the unique flavors of Jiangxi cuisine. Instead of using traditional American spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, we incorporate Jiangxi's signature spices such as star anise and Sichuan peppercorns. Additionally, we use local Jiangxi apples, known for their crispness and natural sweetness, to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Brown Betty, so you can check it out.

• 6 cups (360g) stale bread, cubed 6 cups (360g) stale bread, cubed
• 4 Jiangxi apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 Jiangxi apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground star anise 1 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns 1/2 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 35g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sliced apples, sugar, ground star anise, ground Sichuan peppercorns, and salt. Toss gently to mix well.
3. 3.
   Transfer half of the bread and apple mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. 4.
   Drizzle half of the melted butter over the bread and apple mixture.
5. 5.
   Repeat the layers with the remaining bread and apple mixture, and melted butter.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
7. 7.
   Pour the milk mixture evenly over the bread and apple layers in the baking dish.
8. 8.
   Press down gently on the bread to ensure it is soaked in the custard mixture.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bread — It is best to use stale bread as it absorbs the custard mixture better. If you don't have stale bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread cubes in the oven before using.
• Jiangxi apples — Choose crisp and slightly tart apples for a balanced flavor. If Jiangxi apples are not available, you can use Granny Smith or Fuji apples as alternatives.

Tips & Tricks

• For added texture, sprinkle some crushed toasted almonds or walnuts on top before baking.
• Serve the Jiangxi-style Apple and Bread Pudding warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, you can increase the amount of ground star anise and Sichuan peppercorns.

Serving advice

Serve the Jiangxi-style Apple and Bread Pudding as a comforting dessert after a hearty Jiangxi-style meal. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the top of the baked pudding with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also garnish with a few apple slices or a sprig of fresh mint.