Hasty Pudding
Hasty Pudding is a traditional, hearty cornmeal porridge with simple ingredients and comforting flavors. Its smooth, thick texture makes it suitable for a quick breakfast or dessert, especially when served with milk, sugar, butter, or savory additions. Perfect for those seeking a nostalgic, filling dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a paste of the cold water and cornmeal; stir until there are no lumps.
- Gradually pour the cornmeal paste into the boiling salted water, stirring constantly.
- Continue stirring until the mixture becomes very thick.
- Pour the mixture into a double boiler; cover and cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring frequently.
- Serve hot with milk, sugar, butter, and salt or as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To avoid lumps in your hasty pudding, thoroughly mix the cornmeal with the cold water until smooth before adding to the boiling water. For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the water with milk. You can also experiment with adding flavors like vanilla or cinnamon for a unique twist. This dish is a staple in American recipes, making it versatile for various palates.
Serving Suggestions
Hasty pudding is best served hot and can be complemented with a drizzle of milk, a sprinkle of sugar, and a pat of butter. For added flavor, consider serving it alongside Sweet Chunk Pickles for a delightful contrast. It can also be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a comforting dessert, depending on your preference.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hasty pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the mixture. Stir frequently until warmed through, ensuring it retains its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hasty Pudding contains roughly 148 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1852mg per serving (81% 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 use other types of flour instead of cornmeal?
While cornmeal is traditional for hasty pudding, you can experiment with polenta or a gluten-free corn flour blend. However, the texture and flavor will differ, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.
How do I know when the hasty pudding is done cooking?
The hasty pudding is done when it has thickened significantly and pulls away from the sides of the double boiler. Stir frequently during cooking to ensure even consistency and prevent sticking.
Can I make hasty pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare hasty pudding ahead of time. Cook it as directed, then let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding liquid if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
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).