Embark on a flavorful journey to Wales with this traditional Welsh Bara Brith recipe, a delightful tea-infused fruit loaf that's as rich in history as it is in taste. This speckled bread combines the sweet, spicy essence of dried fruit with the robust flavor of tea for a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with your afternoon cuppa. Let the aroma of spiced muscovado sugar and fruity goodness fill your kitchen as you bake a slice of Welsh heritage. A recipe by Ocado, adapted from their YouTube channel, is a timeless classic that's sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 2 strong breakfast-style tea bags
- 300 ml freshly boiled water
- 400 grams mixed dried fruit
- 50 grams currants (optional; can be replaced with additional mixed dried fruit to make 450 grams total)
- 100 grams dark muscovado sugar
- 2 teaspoons mixed spice
- 250 grams self-raising flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- Butter (for greasing)
- Welsh butter and confectioners' sugar (for serving, optional)
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Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 6 hours to overnight for fruit soaking)
Cook Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to overnight + 1.5 hours
Servings: 8-10
Equipment:
- 2-pound loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Tea kettle or pot for boiling water
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cling film or towel (for covering)
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure your dried fruit mix is varied to get the classic 'speckled' look.
- If you're not a fan of tea, don't worry – the tea flavor is subtle and complements the spices.
- For an authentic taste, opt for Welsh butter when serving.
Instructions:
1. Begin by steeping 2 strong tea bags in 300 ml of freshly boiled water, stirring to expedite the process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 400 grams of mixed dried fruit, 50 grams of currants (if using), 100 grams of dark muscovado sugar, and 2 teaspoons of mixed spice. Mix these dry ingredients well.
3. Pour the steeped tea over the fruit and spice mixture, stir thoroughly, and cover with cling film or a towel. Leave the mixture to soak overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the fruits to plump up and absorb the flavors.
4. The following day, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and butter and line a two-pound loaf pan.
5. Add 250 grams of self-raising flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the fruit mixture. Stir until the flour is well incorporated.
6. Beat one egg and fold it into the batter until completely combined.
7. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and level the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove the Bara Brith from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow cooling before slicing.
10. Serve with a spread of salted Welsh butter, and if desired, a dusting of confectioners' sugar.
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Discover more delicious recipes and inspiration on Ocado's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Ocado
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