Cherokee Puddin
Cherokee Puddin is a hearty, spiced cornmeal pudding with molasses and ginger, perfect for comforting gatherings or a nostalgic treat for those who enjoy rich, flavorful desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the milk.
- Put cold water in the meal to wet it.
- Pour the meal into the boiling milk along with salt and suet.
- Boil for a quarter hour and keep stirring.
- If skim forms, remove it.
- Add 1/2 cup cold milk, sugar, and molasses.
- Stir the soda first into the molasses.
- Add the spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg).
- Beat the egg yolks separately.
- Then fold in the stiff beaten whites.
- Grease or butter the pan.
- Bake for an hour.
- Let it cool for a while to account for some whey.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the suet with butter or a plant-based alternative if you're looking for vegetarian recipes. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the brown sugar slightly. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the cornmeal to prevent lumps in the pudding. This dish can be a delightful accompaniment to Spicy Apple Dip for a flavorful dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherokee Puddin warm as a comforting dessert on its own or with a drizzle of extra molasses on top. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Country-Style Steak With Onion for a balanced dinner that highlights the rich flavors of both dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until warm. You can also reheat in a low oven, covered, for about 15 minutes if you prefer not to use a microwave. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherokee Puddin contains roughly 2722 calories, with 10g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 240g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 952mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pudding in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pudding a day ahead of time. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator and reheat as needed. Just ensure it is covered to maintain moisture. This can help flavors meld and enhance the overall taste when served the next day.
What can I use if I don’t have suet?
If you don't have suet, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a vegetarian option. This will maintain the richness of the pudding while accommodating dietary preferences. Just ensure the alternative is well-chopped if solid before adding.
Is there a way to make this pudding gluten-free?
To make Cherokee Puddin gluten-free, simply replace the cornmeal with a certified gluten-free cornmeal. This dish is naturally gluten-free, so as long as you ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten contamination, you can enjoy this recipe without worry.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).