Jam Roly-poly with Homemade Jam
In the realm of comforting British desserts, few hold as much nostalgic charm as the beloved Jam Roly-poly. This humble yet indulgent treat has graced tables for generations, offering a warm embrace of sweetness and tradition. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the rich history behind this timeless delight.
Origins
The roots of Jam Roly-poly trace back to the heart of British culinary heritage. Dating back to the 19th century, this comforting dessert emerged as a thrifty and satisfying solution to utilise pantry staples in inventive ways. Its simple yet ingenious combination of flour, suet, and jam captured the essence of homey indulgence during an era defined by resourcefulness.
Victorian Era
During the Victorian era, Jam Roly-poly became a staple of British home cooking, earning its place as a cherished dessert enjoyed by families across the nation. Its versatility and affordability made it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions, embodying the spirit of comfort and conviviality that defined Victorian dining.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its culinary appeal, Jam Roly-poly holds a special place in British cultural lore. Often featured in literature, film, and television, this iconic dessert has become synonymous with scenes of domestic warmth and familial bliss. Its enduring popularity reflects its ability to evoke cherished memories and evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.
Modern Revival
While traditional recipes for Jam Roly-poly have stood the test of time, this beloved dessert has also undergone a modern revival in recent years. Chefs and home cooks alike have embraced its timeless appeal, offering creative variations and innovative twists on the classic recipe. From artisanal jams to inventive fillings, Jam Roly-poly continues to captivate taste buds and inspire culinary creativity.
Conclusion
As we embark on our culinary journey through the history of Jam Roly-poly, let us rediscover the magic of this timeless dessert. Whether enjoyed as a comforting treat on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones around the table, its legacy lives, reminding us of the enduring power of tradition and the simple pleasures of good food.
Jam Roly Poly
Ingredients
Raspberry Jam
- 200 g Raspberries
- 200 g Jam Sugar
Suet Pudding
- 250 g Self Raising Flour
- 125 g Suet
- 150 ml Cold Water
- 1 tsp Caster Sugar
- 1/4 tsp Fine Sea Salt
Instructions
The Jam
- In a large saucepan, add the raspberries and the sugar and bring to a gentle boil.
- Boil until the sugar reaches 104℃/220℉ on a thermometer and then immediately remove from the heat.
- Use a fine mesh sieve to pour the boiling jam into a clean jug or jam jar to remove the raspberry seeds. Allow to cool and set.
The Pudding
- Sieve the flour into a large mixing bowl
- Add the suet, salt and sugar and mix together well.
- Add the water to form a soft dough, wrap in cling film and place in the fridge to rest for approximately 20 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 180℃/350℉.
- Roll out the pastry into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface to about a ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the set jam evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll up the dough tightly from one of the long edges, like a swiss roll.
- Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a piece of greaseproof paper.
- Wrap the dough loose in the paper, so it has room to expand while it cooks, twisting the ends to seal it.
- Repeat that process now with a sheet of tin foil over greaseproof roll, and seal the ends.
- In the oven below the shelf you will put the pudding, fill a deep roasting tray with water.
- Sit the pudding on a baking tray on the shelf above and bake for around 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the foil and transfer the jam roly-poly to a serving plate.
- Serve warm with custard.
- Enjoy your homemade jam roly-poly!
